William Archer, 89

William Archer passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones Feb. 17, 2022.

He was born Oct. 7, 1932, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Mack and Rosine Archer. His family moved to Pocahontas, Arkansas, where they owned and operated a small grocery store and some small hunting cabins. In his teen years Bill worked in the family store, and also as a fishing guide for the renters in the cabins. Bill loved the outdoors. He was very at home in the water. Bill was very adept at maneuvering a small canoe while using his fly rod, which he called his “buggy whip.” It was in Pocahontas that Bill met his wife Christine. The couple was married in 1954 and shared 64 years of love and devotion. Bill often referred to Christine as his angel.

Bill and Christine moved their family to California where Bill worked for many years in the plumbing trade. His introduction to Montana was through his aunt Grace who had a small cabin near Libby. He instantly fell in love with Montana, and eventually moved his family there in the early ‘80s.

Bill was a voracious reader. He loved reading nonfiction. One of his favorite subjects was the history of the Native Americans. Stories of people overcoming adversity were relatable to him, as he had to overcome the physical limitations and the stigma of polio. Despite his physical disabilities, he was a very hard worker. He taught us all to not let obstacles discourage us. Don’t give up. Have faith, courage and a strong will and anything is possible.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Mack and Rosine Archer, brother Mack Jr., his wife Christine, and daughter-in-law Charlotte.

He is survived by his brother John, his children Bill Junior, James (Magda), Robert (Jennifer) and Becky Borden (Stu), and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bill was a devoted husband, wonderful father and grandfather, and will be greatly missed.

Services will be held at Saint Matthew’s Parish, date pending.