Juel 'Maurice' Leib, 81

Juel “Maurice” Leib, 81, of Columbia Falls, passed away on Oct. 5, 2022, surrounded by his family.

He was born Sept. 10, 1941, in Scobey, Montana, to Alma Helickson and John Leib.

He spent his childhood running around the woods of Eureka. He proudly served in the Navy from 1959 to 1963. He received a commendation for outstanding performance of the USS Nitro, during the Cuban Quarantine of November 1962. In 1964 he married the love of his life, Norma Nelson. They had three children Travis, Melissa and Michael. He spent the majority of his life working in the woods, building roads and logging. His love for the outdoors took him all across the state of Montana. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and riding his horse Lolly. He also enjoyed working in the shop, and riding in the truck with his son Mike. His wandering heart was never satisfied unless he was exploring new places.

Dad was an outstanding husband, and he loved his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren unconditionally. His family was the center of his life. We will miss him dearly and cherish the thousands of memories we have together.

Maurice was preceded in death by his father John Leib, his mother Alma Helickson, his brother Alan Leib, and his granddaughter Gitanna Leib.

Maurice is survived by his loving wife Norma, and their three children Travis (Cristina) Leib, Melissa (Todd) Olsen and Mike (Tracy) Leib; his sister, Geri Ax; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Oct. 22 at 1 p.m. at the Country Inn and Suites, 4150 U.S. Hwy. 2 Kalispell, MT 59901.