Mark Wittman, 61

Mark Wittman passed away on July 20, 2014, of complications associated with long-term cancer issues. He was 61 years old.

Born in Billings on June 25, 1953, his parents were Mildred (Trast) and Herman Wittman (now deceased). His formative years were spent in Billings and Missoula. Mark graduated from Sentinel High School in Missoula in 1971, and later attended the University of Montana.

Mark was a professional drummer — playing with The Montana Band, Norton Buffalo & the Knockouts, Kostas, Rob Quist and Great Northern, Montana Rose, Live Wire Choir, BMW and The Saddle Tramps — and he spent several years working as a studio musician in Nashville, Tenn.

Mark worked as a ski instructor, beginning at Marshall Ski School in Missoula in 1974, and later at the Big Mountain and Bridger Bowl Ski Schools. Mark had a Level III certification from the Professional Ski Instructors of America.

In his younger years, Mark was active with the Boy Scouts of America, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. He was a member of the Wilgus Lodge Order of the Arrow and the Wilgus Indian Dance Team which competed in regional and national competitions.  

Survivors include Laurie M. Hoobs of Emmett, Idaho, and Gregory P. and Karan Wittman of Reno, Nev. Also surviving are three nephews, one niece, one grandniece and one grandnephew.

Mark enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, gardening, gourmet cooking and boating. He will always be remembered for his sense of humor, a friendly smile and the love he had for everyone. Mark will be missed by his family and many friends.

A memorial celebration will be held in the Flathead Valley at 2 p.m. on Sept. 7 at 581 Riverside Road in Creston. Please call (406) 260-1525 to RSVP.

Cremation has taken place under direction of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home.