Oran Gordion 'Gordy' McCartney, 80

Oran Gordion “Gordy” McCartney “left our presence here on Earth to be with our Heavenly Father and our beautiful mother” on April 23, 2011. He was born on March 14, 1931, in Browning, to Oran and Emma McCartney.

He met and married Verna Buck on Oct. 6, 1951, in Kalispell. They were married almost 56 years “before the Lord called mommy home.”

Daddy was a blessing to many and made life a bit richer for everyone who knew him. His children were a big part of his life, and we know that he was happiest when he was with his family. Whether he was camping, hunting or snowmobiling, he was always with one of his kids or grandkids and we were blessed because of it.

Dad owned and operated Gordy’s Electric for many years here in the Flathead Valley. He loved his work and made many great friends who couldn't help but love him in return. Dad was a wonderful man and always had a smile for everyone. In his last week of life, his smile is what got us through. He knew how much we loved him and “we believe that's what made it so much easier for him to enter into the arms of the Lord.” Although we miss him terribly, we also know that he lived a full and happy life while he was with us.

Dad was preceded in death by his parents, Oran and Emma McCartney; and his wife, Verna McCartney.

He is survived by his children, Tawni and Gordon Norton, Randy McCartney and wife Nora, Sam McCartney and wife Deby, Lona Hanson and husband Chris, Mike McCartney, Lori Jo Cousins and husband Trevor, LeAnn Sampson and husband Todd, all of Kalispell, and Lisa Newton and husband Glenn of Ripley, NY.; one sister, Arlene Keller; 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren; and many, many nieces and nephews who thought the world of our dad. And most importantly he is survived by Gladys Buck, who was not only his companion for the last three years, but someone who shared a special love with him and took care of him. She is a blessing to his children and we couldn't love her more.

“Thank you, Daddy, for all the love you've shown us through the years and for being our best friend. Although we have to say good-bye for now, we know heaven is a brighter place for having you.”

Funeral services for Gordy will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 28, at Easthaven Baptist Church with Pastor Daniel Lambert officiating. Burial will follow at Glacier Memorial Gardens. A potluck reception will follow the burial at the church. Friends are invited to visit www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolence for the family.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.