Michael Clyde Bear, 64

Michael Clyde Bear, born on March 13, 1957, in Kalispell, passed away at his home in Kalispell on Dec. 26, 2021. Michael was the fourth child of eight born to Harry E. and Lottie V. (Hill) Bear.

Michael is survived by his wife of 30 years, Donna (Norton) Bear. He is also survived by two children, Jeffrey M. Bear and Trisha R. Bear, and by his 4-year-old granddaughter Bella.

He was a loving father and grandfather who enjoyed spending time outdoors with his family.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Harry and Lottie Bear, in 2000, his sister, Jacqueline Anderson, in 2000 and his brother, Rick Bear, in 2011.

Mike is survived by his brother John Bear and wife Joey; sister Kathy Eland and husband Tom; brother Tim Bear; sister Pam Winn and husband Dennis; brother Mark Bear, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mike began working early in life and was a carpenter at age 17. He continued in that trade, becoming a mason and a painter. When Mike retired from working at Glacier National Park, he was a wage grade 9 maintenance mechanic. He partnered on building the Trail of the Cedars/Avalanche Falls Overlook and restoring various historical lodges in the park.

Mike practiced martial arts. He also enjoyed panning and looking for gold with a metal detector while he spent time with his dad. Later, the two enjoyed time together in Harry’s garden. The memories working with his dad were always some of Mike’s favorites. He continued his love of the outdoors with his own family. His wife, children and granddaughter joined Mike camping and exploring the woods. Mike loved huckleberry picking and always had a bucket in hand during huckleberry season. He would always say, “bear in a patch.”

After Mike retired he spent his final years reliving old memories of his days in the park and sharing them with love with his granddaughter Bella. Mike was a son, a brother, an uncle, a husband, a father and grandfather, and will be missed by all whose lives he touched.