Elton Ross Hoyt, 84

Elton Ross Hoyt, 84, passed away on Jan. 23, 2023, at St. Luke Community Hospital in Ronan. He was born on June 21, 1938, in Polson to E. Edward and A. Blanch (Howell) Hoyt.

He graduated from Polson High School in 1957. He was in the National Guard for 7.5 years. He married Darline Joyce in 1966 and they raised 2 sons, Chris and Tom. Chris was born in October 1967 and Tom was adopted in 1974. In 2013, they adopted their daughter Tammy.

Ross was a rancher, self-employed building contractor and backhoe operator. He retired and spent his time woodworking. Ross had two passions: one of which was making sure we had a fire hall and in 1980, he and a lot of volunteers built the Big Arm Fire Hall. Ross volunteered for 20 years. He also helped to renovate the Big Arm School to use as a community center.

He was preceded in death by his son Chris in 2009. He is survived by his wife Darline; son Tom (Angel); daughter Tammy (Reidy); three grandsons; two great-granddaughters and an aunt Jessie Wienderlich of Valier, Montana.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.