Neil J. Dodge, 81, of Columbia Falls

Neil Joseph Dodge peacefully passed from this world into the arms of God on Friday April 5, 2013. Dodge died at home with his wife, Carol, by his side.

Neil was born Feb. 20, 1932, in Rice Lake, Wis., to Lyle and Alma (Wood) Dodge. 

He always spoke of his boyhood as being the ideal small-town experience. Neil was an active member of St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Rice Lake, serving Mass throughout his school days and after, right up to the week he was married.  He maintained a close bond with his classmates and eagerly looked forward to their reunions.  

In Wisconsin, Neil began his lifelong dedication to his favorite football team The Packers.

On June 22, 1957, Neil married Viola Wicken in Rice Lake Wis. They were blessed with three sons, Jeff, Brian and Kyle, and a daughter, Shannon. 

Neil served 21 years in the U.S. Coast Guard, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer 03. Among his duty stations were Coos Bay, Ore., Cape Argo Lighthouse Ore., Seattle, Wash., San Diego Calif., Honolulu Hawaii, Boston Mass., and Alameda Calif. 

He married Carol Gracia McNutt, and they made their home in Columbia Falls.

Neil enjoyed golfing, playing cards and cribbage, gathering for coffee at the Nite Owl, traveling, watching his favorite teams on television and searching for the ideal breakfast restaurant. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Alma Dodge; his brother, Lyle (Viola) Dodge Jr.. He is survived by his wife, Carol; four children and eight grandchildren.  

Also surviving are sons, Jeff, Brian (Mary), Kyle (Debra); daughter Shannon. Surving grandchildren include Taylor and Tanner Dodge, Chris Dodge, Jordan, Kayla and Evan Dodge, and Olivia and Jake Schwehm.

Rosary will be said at Columbia Mortuary at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 11, 2013. A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated by The Rev. John Miller at St. Richards Catholic Church in Columbia Falls at 11 a.m. Friday, April 12, 2013. A luncheon will follow in the parish center.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Neil’s name to Relay for Life or the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Columbia Mortuary. Persons are invited to go to www.columbiamortuary.com to offer condolences and view Neil’s tribute wall.