Hershel Grigsby Jr., 67

Hershel Grigsby Jr., 67, passed away at his home in Kalispell on Jan. 21, 2014. 

Hershel was born July 25, 1946, to Hershel “Whitey” and Verda Lee (Chapman) Grigsby in Louisville, Ky. Hershel’s father worked construction so they lived in a variety of places and states during his childhood. His fondest memories were of the time they spent in Butte where he attended most of his high school years. Always moving around, Hershel graduated from high school in Colorado Springs, Colo. 

After high school Hershel joined the Marine Corps in 1966 and served two terms in Vietnam, from ’66 to ’68. Hershel was honorably discharged and returned to Montana. 

In 1969, Hershel went to work for Pacific Power and Light where he made his career first as a meter reader, then journeyman lineman to journeyman line foreman and finally operations manager in Bend, Ore., and Rexburg, Idaho. Hershel retired from Pacific Power (Pacific Corp.) in 2002. He worked for Mountain Power for a number of years after his retirement from Pacific Power. 

Hershel spent many years in Kalispell. In 1978 Hershel married Betty Wise (they were divorced in 2010) and in 1985 son Adam was born. Hershel enjoyed fishing on the Flathead and especially McGregor Lake. He also enjoyed hunting with friends. 

Hershel was preceded in death by his parents. 

He is survived by his son, Adam, and Andrea, and granddaughter Alana Grigsby, of Florence; sister, Mona Brue, and niece, Donna Williams, of Washington; numerous relatives in Kentucky; and his many friends. 

A celebration of life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 30, at the Elks Club in Kalispell.

Memorials can be made in Hershel’s honor to the donor's choice. 

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Hershel’s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Hershel’s tribute wall, offer condolences and share memories.