John Thomas McGrew, 70
John Thomas McGrew, 70, of Kalispell, was “welcomed home by our Heavenly Father” on Friday, Dec. 23, 2016.
John was born to John F. McGrew and Virginia L. Thompson on June 14, 1946, in Cody, Wyoming.
John is survived by his wife, Linda L. McGrew; his children, Mona Harris, Jenny Hodge, Matthew Hodge, Jacob McGrew, Tessy Shipman, Vivian Poston Gelormino, Valerie Poston Faisal, Vickie Buck and Micheal Poston; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was married to Karen Halberg from 1968 through the early ‘70s and they were blessed with Mona, Jenny and Matthew. From 1976 through 1994 he was married to Kelen Ostrander and they were blessed with Jacob, Tessy and Connie. Because a third time’s a charm, he married Linda L. Mattovich, in which he stated, “She was the best thing that has ever happened me” and gained four bonus children to help raise, Vivian, Valerie, Vickie and Micheal.
In the early and mid-‘60s he served this great country by enlisting in the Navy. His service included time on the USS De Haven (DD-469), USS Bryce Canyon (AD-36) and other vessels. He enjoyed his service and sharing stories of the great adventures he had.
Throughout his life he worked as a riveter, molded plastics and bronze in foundries, worked in the oil fields of North Dakota and Wyoming, raised farm animals, had an Amway business and crafted log furniture.
He loved to laugh, tell jokes and stories, watch a good Western, dance, fish and listen to the Bible. He enjoyed barbecue and homemade potato salad. He is remembered as a man who loved children; he loved to spoil them with candy and show them love through acts of kindness. He was an active and dedicated member of Stillwater Free Lutheran Church.
He will be greatly missed by his family and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.
A memorial is scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, at Stillwater Free Lutheran Church with a reception following to celebrate John’s life.
To send a note of condolence to the family, please visit www.buffalohillfh.com. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.