Bert Lenon, 65

Bert Lenon, 65, passed away April 11, 2017, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Bert graduated from Flathead High School in 1969 then pursued a degree at the “School of Hard Knocks,” majoring in speed, fun and rock ‘n’ roll. Cars and waterskiing were lifelong interests. He earned titles as a Montana State Go-Kart Champion and Montana State Barefoot Ski Champion. Always a thrill seeker, Bert had many adventures in Flathead County — its lakes, rivers, forests and, especially, its bars. Up to the end, he was shooting whistle pigs through the window of a pickup truck (Is that even legal?). His need for speed was often seen as he flew through the backroads of Echo Lake, empty highways or parking lots doing autocross racing.

Though born in Wisconsin, Bert was raised in Kalispell and lived his life as a true Montanan. Bert was a jack-of-all-trades — he ran his parents’ business, worked in construction and sales, started an auto business and then settled into bartering as an occupation and pastime.

Bert was preceded in death by his parents, June and Frank Lenon, as well as his brother, Bill Lenon.

Bert is survived by his daughter, Melissa Lenon, and grandchildren, Cole and Jackie, who live in Santa Clara, California, and, his best friend, another brother, Gary Lapp.

A summertime burial service is to be announced.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for the family.