William 'Bill' Edward Highbarger, 72

William “Bill” Edward Highbarger, 72, “went home to heaven” on Feb. 14, 2015, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, after a 17-year battle with COPD. 

A celebration of Bill's life will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 20, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home, 1890 U.S. 93 N., in Kalispell.

Bill was born Feb. 10, 1943, to Hazel (Scott) and William James Highbarger in Roundup. His parents divorced early in Bill's life and he was raised by his grandparents, Josephine and Bill Scott, and Aunt Beulah Scott Rice. He attended school in Roundup.

Bill went into the Marine Corps in April, 1961. He went to boot camp in San Diego and did three tours on Okinawa, receiving jungle training. He was honorably discharged in May 1965.

Bill married Sharon Branum in 1964; Vicki Lynn was born in 1967. The marriage ended in divorce. 

Bill received his bachelor’s degree in 1974, and his master’s degree in 1980, from Eastern Montana College. He worked as a rehabilitation counselor in Lewistown. After receiving his masters degree, he was a school psychologist in Miles City and in Great Falls. 

A new job brought Bill to Kalispell in 1986, where he met Karen McDaniel. They were married in February 1988. Bill had a counseling practice in Kalispell for nine years.

Bill enjoyed fishing, camping, reading and travel. He was a member of Epworth United Methodist Church, the National Rifle Association and the American Legion.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents and parents.

Bill is survived by his wife, Karen; his brother, John; his niece, Tera; and daughter, Vicki. 

Memorials are suggested to Home Options Hospice, Montana Wounded Warriors and Northwest Montana Veterans Food Pantry. 

Friends are encouraged to visit the website www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolence for the family. 

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.