William 'Bill' Duane Einarson, 87

William “Bill” Duane Einarson, 87, passed away peacefully at home on March 1, 2011, surrounded by his family.

He was the son of Ole and Ethel Einarson of Milton, N.D. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and moved to the Columbia Falls area in 1949. He was a hard worker who labored in the timber industry, helped construct the Hungry Horse dam, worked 23 years for Columbia Falls Aluminum Co., and took pride in being caretaker of the Woodland Cemetery for many years after he retired.

He was a loving husband of 63 years to his wife, Edith; a wonderful father and role model to his children, Charlotte Einarson Taylor of Burbank, Calif., Terry Einarson and wife Connie of Kalispell, Karen Matson and husband Randy of Columbia Falls, and Wayne Einarson and wife Belinda of Oregon. He was a beloved grandpa to Tonya, Lisa, Deana, Jesse, Jamie and Jennifer, and in recent years, he was overjoyed to become adoring Papa to great-grandchildren, Elaine, Keira, Chris, Danica and Juliana. He is also survived by his brother, Dennis; and sisters, Joyce, Beverly and Doreen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

“He joins his parents, six sisters, and an infant daughter with the Lord.”

Bill was a kind, caring, creative man who was loved and respected by all who knew him.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at 1p .m. on Friday, March 4, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 401 Seventh Street West, Columbia Falls.

In lieu of flowers, Bill’s family wishes that donations be made in memory of Bill Einarson to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 2770, Columbia Falls, MT 59912; or Hospice Home Options, 430 Windward Way No. 101 Kalispell, MT 59901.

Columbia Mortuary is assisting the family.