John Postlethwaite

John J. Postlethwaite, 86, died Monday, June 5, 2006, at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula.

John was born on March 29, 1920, to Robert and Ruth (Jackson) Postlethwaite in Dalton, England. Soon after his birth the family immigrated to America settling in Augusta.

His father was a rancher, and John was raised on the ranch until the age of 17 when the family moved to Anaconda. While in Anaconda, John went to work for the mines as a powder monkey.

He eventually joined the U.S. Army and served during World War II. Upon John's discharge he moved to Libby where he worked for 25 years. After his retirement, he moved to Missoula where he lived until his death.

John enjoyed fishing and hunting and working on carpentry projects. He was a proud member of the International Order of the Odd Fellows Lodge of Missoula. One of John's greatest joys was spending time with his many grandchildren and great grandchildren He will be missed by his many friends and his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Bill and grandson Robert.

He is survived by his sons and their wives, Burt and Pat Postlethwaite of Spirit Lake, Idaho, and Robert and Rita Postlethwaite of Libby; nine grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

There will be a graveside service with military honors at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 9, at Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Missoula.

Sunset Memorial Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.