Carl John Volkmann, 46

Carl John Volkmann, 46, passed away at North Valley Hospital on Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011.

He was born on April 26, 1965, to Ervin and Linda Volkmann in Wicomico, Md.

Carl was a hardworking man in the logging and excavating industry and loved his work. His true love, however, was his family. After being a single father for a number of years, he met Francine and married her on Sept. 3, 2006, at Flathead River Ranch. Together they have lovingly raised five children.

Carl will always be remembered by friends and family as a truly honorable man who always had a positive outlook on life. You would often hear him answer that things are “wonderful” to most any question. He was a devoted, faithful father, husband and the best friend anyone could ask for.

Some of Carl's other interests included boating, fishing, camping, hunting and four-wheeling. He loved the little things in life and really enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Family was Carl's number one priority.

Carl was a strong man in many ways. Physically, he was a champion arm wrestler, expert axe/hatchet thrower, skeet sharpshooter and he competed in many Logger Day competitions. Even though Carl had great strength, he had amazing self-control and was a big "teddy bear.” However, that didn't mean he would not come to the aid of anyone in need. He would fight for those he loved. Carl's life was strength under control in all areas. He was the strongest man we have ever known and he used it only for good.

Carl was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Josephine Kinner.

He is survived by his wife, Francine; his five children, Karli, Cody, Tyler, Joshua and Jacob, all of Whitefish; his father, Ervin Volkmann, of Mosinee, Wis.; and his brother, Bryan Volkmann, of Lolo.

A memorial service for Carl will be held at 2 p.m., Sept. 12, at Austin Funeral Home in Whitefish.

Arrangements are entrusted to Austin Funeral Home. You are invited to go to www.austinfh.com to offer condolences and view Carl's tribute wall.