Isaiah Jacob Strong, 41

Isaiah Jacob Strong, 41, born Jan. 22, 1980, in Petoskey, Michigan, to Robert and Cindy Strong, residing in Columbia Falls, departed this world for his heavenly home on Feb. 26, 2021, in Kalispell.

He was a graduate of Pellston High School. He spent most of his adulthood on fishing boats in Alaska, or logging in the mountains of Montana. He was the boy from "Into the Wild," living life as free as he could, playing his guitar, creating beautiful gardens, and sleeping on a cot in the wilderness under the stars. He was an athlete, running 10 miles on mountain trails, doing handstand pushups, accomplishing the work of three men. He often would come home to Michigan at Christmas and split his parents winter wood by hand.

He was a man of few words, but deep thoughts. He lived life to the fullest, not pressed into anyone else's mold. He followed his heart, humble, kind and generous, with a strong faith in God. He was not afraid of death, but knew he would meet his maker in heaven.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Strong; grandparents, William and Violet Strong; and uncles, Bill Strong and David Byard. He is survived by his mother, Cindy Strong; daughter, Abigail Strong; brother, Seth Strong; sisters, Jaimee (Brian) Metzger and Kassia Strong; nephews, Isaac, Micah and Silas Metzger; grandparents, Philip and Leona Byard; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Go rest high on that mountain, Isaiah. You will be forever in our hearts, ‘til we meet again.

Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for the family.