Richard 'Dick' Nelson Field, 84

Richard “Dick” Nelson Field, 84, of Whitefish, died Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, after an extended illness.

Born on November 29, 1934 in Edgerton, Wisconsin, to parents Burton and Dorothy Field, Dick graduated from Wisconsin State College, Platteville with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Arts Education degree in 1959. Dick obtained his Master of Science degree from Winona State in 1970.

Dec. 21, 1957, brought about his marriage to Doris Ashley of Janesville. Together they raised two children, Lesia and Rick. Moving to Montana in 1979, Dick and Doris made Whitefish their home, surrounding themselves with a tight-knit community of friends.

Two career paths were joined by Dick’s passions for teaching and using his hands. As a teacher of industrial arts and coach of many sports, Dick loved the process of building and shaping. Not only was he a coach in wrestling, football and golf to many young minds, but he continually coached and encouraged those around him throughout his life. In Whitefish, Dick made a name for himself as a handyman at North Valley Hospital where he worked until his retirement.

Forever busy in his woodshop, he made many beautiful birdhouses, Nativity scenes, rocking horses and toy boxes, which have graced all of our lives. His involvement with various community organizations like the food bank, St. Peter Lutheran Church, and Whitefish’s Winter Carnival earned him the loving titles of the “Pageant Painter” and “Talented Taskmaster.” Both Dick and Doris were members of The Merry Makers.

Dick had many passions and hobbies — some he excelled at and some were just fun. He enjoyed the challenge of the autumn hunting season, relishing in the preparation for the hunt as well as time with friends. Fishing and camping at Koocanusa with family and friends occupied many summer weekends. Dick played many rounds of golf and was a member of the men’s league, transitioning later in life with the “Geezer” group. His Green Bay Packers putter was his short game smoking weapon. Dick loved time spent in Glacier National Park with family.

Dick is survived by his children, Lesia Hatlestad (Dan) and Rick Field (Kim) and grandson, Erik Hatlestad. He has a remaining brother, Ken, of Ohio.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Doug and David, and wife Doris.

All are invited to attend Dick’s celebration of life at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 201 Wisconsin Ave., Whitefish, MT 59937. There will be a reception immediately after the celebration at St. Peter’s.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to St. Peter Lutheran Church of Whitefish and Glacier National Park Conservancy.

Austin Funeral and Cremation Services in Whitefish is caring for Dick’s family.