Melvin Switzler, 88

Melvin “Mugsy” Switzler was born in Renton, Washington, Aug. 31, 1929, to George and Opal Switzler.

He passed peacefully at Heritage Place in Kalispell on June 20, 2018, after spending three years at Lakeview Care Center in Bigfork.

Mel’s early years were spent in Renton with siblings, Charles, Helen and Roy. His first job was logging with his dad. He also worked alongside his dad in the construction of Hungry Horse Dam.

He developed a love of the great outdoors and the mountains. Mel and his first wife Gladys were members of Green River Valley Jeep Club. They spent many happy days exploring the mountains of Washington.

Mel worked many years at Pacific Car and Foundry. When it closed, he worked for Kenworth Truck Co., until his retirement.

After Gladys’ death, Mel met and married his dear wife Rosalee, “Rosie” not only gave Mel a loving family, but also had a love of the mountains. After retiring, they moved to Montana and settled in Bigfork. Mel spent 30-plus years hunting and fishing with son-in-law Silvestre.

Mel will long be remembered as a generous man and was always there for friends and family. He loved the wildlife around his place, and loved supplying nutrition to young does and fawns.

When health permitted, they attended Bigfork Chapel where Mel and Rose enjoyed the fellowship.

The family would like to thank friends and staff at Lakeview and Heritage Place for their loving care of both Mel and Rosie. A special thanks to Silvestre “Chivete” and Kathy “Kat” Rodriguez for being the loving family he needed in his later years.

Mel requested no services be held. A memorial is planned for later this summer.