Michael Douglas Winter, 69

Michael Douglas Winter, 69, passed peacefully in his home July 2, 2020.

Mike was born May 6, 1951, to Carl “Doug” and Margaret Winter in Inglewood, California. Mike graduated from Hawthorne High School in 1969 and attended El Camino College.

A California surfer at his core, in his earlier years Mike also enjoyed skateboarding, drag racing, and worked ski patrol. His love of skiing frequently brought him to Montana to visit Big Mountain. In the early 1980s Mike moved to Montana with his wife Sarah and their two young children Dustin and Lauren, putting down roots in his forever home. It was here that Mike began his career driving truck; the births of Juliene and Jonathan followed.

Mike was passionate about the Flathead Valley, he loved to boat and fish the lakes and rivers. There wasn’t a road he couldn’t name and likely a story to go along with it. Whether it was about a propane delivery knee deep in snow, a low boy haul he had maneuvered or jackknifing a double bottom, Mike could make “a long story short” for hours! He loved music, jamming out playing his guitar, conversing and laughing with friends and family. He had a wealth of knowledge he was eager to share. To say he will be missed is an understatement.

He was preceded in death by his parents Doug and Margie Winter, and sister Carol Winter; and is survived by his children, Dustin Winter (Nicole), Lauren Winter-Callahan, Juliene Lynas (Justin), and Jonathan Winter; siblings, Sheri Winter-Glass, Susie Winter-Barton and Mae Winter; nephew, Ian Winter; niece, Kristyn Barton; and grandchildren, Hailee, Izabelle, Gaige, Alexander, Kya, Tovar, Cydney, Henry, Colter, Damon and Daysen.

A celebration of life will be held at the home of Dustin and Nicole Winter Saturday, July 11, at 1 p.m., 2346 Middle Road, Columbia Falls.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for the family.