James 'Lucky' Stacy, 83

James Edward “Lucky” Stacy, 83, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully on Friday, Feb. 10 surrounded by his family after a bitter fight with lung cancer.

Born May 23, 1939 in Helena, Lucky was the eldest of four boys and a step-sister (Hutton) born to Norman E. Stacy and Velma A. (Miller) Stacy Hutton and was raised in the Flathead Valley.

While serving in the U.S. Army (1961-1967), he met his sweetheart Lois Ann Houskeeper and they married Aug. 21, 1964 in Kalispell. They celebrated 46 years of comical romance until her passing in 2011. The two resided in Libby for 17 years before returning to Kalispell for the remainder of their lives.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather and provider to his two children, James was a seasoned Teamster and enjoyed trucking jobs that took him to Washington, Alaska and the entire Montana territory. He also worked as a chauffeur on the set of "Heaven’s Gate" in Kalispell for Kris Kristofferson and several others before settling into steady employment with Schellinger Construction of Columbia Falls until his retirement.

After his wife Lois’ passing, Lucky took on a new role as an unofficial mascot and full-time patron of Nickel Charlie’s where he adopted a second family and many friends. He always said he was a “Fun-Gi” because he “grows on you” and he did. As unique as they come, Lucky, the jokester, had a hug for everyone and a story to tell. His heart and generosity were as big as his belly and he will be greatly missed.

Lucky is survived by his children Heather (Joe) Mongelli, Bryan Stacy (Ginny Larkey), “adopted” children Todd and Tanya Troyer, grandchildren Marisa Mongelli (Vincent DiMento), Logan Mongelli (Kiersten Connor), Pyper Stacy, his siblings Dennis (Debi) Stacy, Gene Stacy (Janet McInroy), Stepsister Carolyn Tonkinson (Rey Pederson), his best friend and cohort Ira Troyer, his sidekick Alesha White, many nieces and nephews and many beloved friends and extended family.

Lucky’s loyal love, friendship and jokes were given to all who crossed his path.

He was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Lois, in-laws Cliff and Louise Houskeeper, his brother Robert Stacy, brother in law Tom Tonkinson and many others who were precious to him.

The family wishes to extend their humble gratitude to the staff of North Valley Hospital in Whitefish, MT and the entire staff of Enhabit Hospice for their angelic service.

A family memorial service will be held in May. Additional information to be announced.

Donations can be made in his honor to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Please visit the website of Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home to share memories of Lucky.