Alvin Lee 'Al' Gillig, 85

Alvin “Al” Lee Gillig, 85, passed away peacefully Monday, Feb.17, 2014, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls, surrounded by family and friends.

He was born Aug. 30, 1928, in Denhoff, N.D., to William and Otilda Gillig.

When Al was just a young man he helped his father William with the farming duties. He was a very busy young man. He served in the U.S. Army from January 1951 to January 1953. Alvin’s duty assignment was as a medic. He was enrolled in Medic School from September 1951 to November 1951. He was honorably discharged from active duty on Jan. 13, 1953. After being released from active duty, Al transferred to ERC to complete his reserve status obligation for five years.

Al met and married his high school sweetheart, Marcella, and they had three children, Lyle, Elwood and DeLight. Al and Marcella loved camping with their family and friends, especially the extended camping trips to Thompson Lake. Some of his favorite times were when he was going to horse shows and rodeos. Al would help his son Lyle prepare to ride bulls by pulling the rope for him.

Alvin is survived by his sons, Lyle and Elwood; daughter, DeLight; sister, Judy; granddaughters, Tonia, Amy, Erin and Elisha; grandsons, Robert, Ryan, Josh and Eric; as well as numerous great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family.

The family wishes to give thanks to all those who gave continued love and support throughout his life and during his illness. Special thanks to the Montana Veterans Home and Home Options Hospice for the wonderful care given to Grandpa.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Montana Veterans Home.

Services will be held privately in North Dakota at a later date.

“Grandpa, you will be missed!”