Michael James Clanton, 74

Michael “Mike” Clanton passed away on March 3, 2021, from Parkinson’s disease at the age of 74.

Mike was born June 17, 1946, in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, to Robert and Goldie Clanton. He graduated from Prairie du Chien High School in 1964. Mike worked as a salesman for Stark’s Sport Shop and a commercial fisherman until 1980. Mike was an avid hunter and fisherman through out his life, and fell in love with Montana on one of his many adventures.

After discovering Montana, he picked up his family and made the move to Montana where he bought the Dew Drop Inn, which he owned and operated for four decades. During this time Mike was able to spend a lot of time with kids and grandkids on numerous hunting and fishing trips. Mike was an accomplished guide in both Montana and Alaska, and was able to fulfill a lifelong dream to go on a hunting safari in Africa in 2018.

Mike was preceded in death by his father Robert Clanton, mother Goldie Clanton, and brother Gary Clanton.

He is survived by sons, Pat Clanton (Susan Nelson) and Kevin Clanton (Lori Clanton); and daughter, Darci Nelson (John Nelson); brother, Larry Clanton (Pauline Clanton); sister, Nancy Thurn (Gary Thurn); sister-in-law, Lavonne Clanton; and grandchildren, Jacob, Levi, Asher, Jared, Jordan, Renae and Kalob.

A memorial service will be held June 12. Details will be announced at a later date.

Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for the family.