William “Billy” Charles Sapa, 53

William “Billy” Charles Sapa, 53, of Columbia Falls, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at his home on April 17, 2023.

Billy was born April 29, 1969, in Moorhead, Minn., to Dick and Charlotte (Hanson) Sapa. The Sapa family moved to Columbia Falls and bought the Blue Moon when Billy was 3 years old in 1972. Billy always loved sports and boxed as well as played football, basketball and baseball. He played all of them through high school in Columbia Falls and continued playing baseball at Lower Columbia Community College and then at the University of New Mexico.

Billy has always been active and grew up with a strong work ethic. He kept busy running multiple family businesses including the Blue Moon (Nightclub, Casino and Grill), the Blue Moon rodeo and the family farm. He was also the head coach for the Columbia Falls High School baseball team as well as an assistant coach for the Columbia Falls High School football team.

Billy had several accomplishments including being on the first baseball team from Montana to go to the Babe Ruth World Series, playing Division 1 college baseball on a full-ride scholarship, and being drafted by the New York Yankees in 1990.

In addition, he was an avid hunter who shot a Boone and Crocket Kodiak Bear, two Boone and Crocket mountain lions and was one sheep away from the grand slam. He was a true outdoorsman who appreciated any chance he got to hunt and fish. He was also a tremendous sports fanatic and loved coaching and watching his kids activities.

Billy was proceeded in death by his brother, James “Jimmy” Sapa; and his loving parents, Richard “Dick” and Charlotte Sapa.

Billy and Tonia raised three beautiful children, Hailey Ann (25), Lane Chadwick (22) and Reggie Brandt Sapa (16). He is also survived by his sister, Charlene, and her three kids Chris, Colin and Catie King.

A gathering for viewing and visitation is open for family and friends on Wednesday, April 26 from 4-7 p.m. at Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls. A celebration of Billy’s remarkable life will be held on his birthday at 1 p.m., Saturday, April 29 at the Columbia Falls High School gymnasium with a reception following at the Blue Moon.

Please visit Billy’s tribute page at www.columbiamortuary.com to share memories and condolences with the family.