Ronald E. Christman, 86

Ronald E. Christman, fondly known as Ron, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to all that crossed his path, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2024, with his family by his side.

Born Nov. 8, 1937, in Petrel, North Dakota, to E.J. and Grayce Christman, Ron was raised on a farm in Lemmon, South Dakota. After one too many cold winters, the family moved to Missoula, where Ron went on to graduate from the University of Montana in 1959. After graduation, he accepted a trainee position with Petrolene Gas based out of Long Beach, California. The job took him to several different areas throughout the Northwest. 

In 1961, he joined the Army, serving his country from Washington D.C. He enjoyed his time there, being able to experience many historical sites of our nation’s capital. After his service, he felt a change of pace was needed, which began his employment with Mountain Tractor in sales and management of a branch office in Deer Lodge. In 1965, the decision was made to close that store and he was transferred here to Kalispell. Around that time, he was introduced to the love of his life, Carol, through a mutual acquaintance and they were married in 1968. This year also began his banking career in lending at Conrad National Bank. Ron truly enjoyed the banking industry, even continuing his education in the field as a graduating class member of 1978 from Pacific Coast Banking School. The fulfillment of helping people financially lasted 34 years, when he retired from Mountain West Bank in 2002. To this day, people still share stories of how Ron saved their life or helped start their business, all by giving them a chance by approving a loan. Ron truly cared about people and the community.

Retirement became more of "semi-retirement," as those who knew Ron, knew he had to stay busy. He started driving cars for Enterprise Rent-A-Car, meeting people from all over the country and also continued to serve on the Sunrisers Lions. As a long-serving member, he received several accolades for his commitment and dedication to the local community. Above all, he enjoyed gardening, spending time with his kids and grandkids and of course, watching sports; especially his beloved alma-mater, the University of Montana Grizzlies.

He was preceded in death by his parents, E.J. and Grayce Christman; sister, Bev Bonamie; and brother, Keith Christman.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Christman; son, Jason Christman; daughter, Jaclyn (Tony) Baker; grandchildren, Jaysie Christman, Gavin Baker, Ethan Baker and Owen Baker.

Ron had the great ability to make those around him smile and laugh, even cracking jokes with his family and playing light-hearted pranks on the nurses up until he passed. His shining spirit will live on in our hearts forever and he will be truly missed.

A celebration of life will begin at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 24, at Lawrence Park in Kalispell. To honor his favorite pastime, University of Montana Grizzlies apparel is encouraged.