Ronald D. Ihrke, 70, of Libby

Ronald D. Ihrke, 70, passed away on Dec. 30, 2013, after a short, courageous battle with cancer.  

He went to be with the Lord with his wife and faithful dog by his side and the love of family and friends in his heart.  

He was born Jan. 29, 1943, in Renton, Wash., to Orville and Violet Ihrke.

Ron married Sue Henry in 1961, and they had three sons, Fabian, Robin and Ronald Scott. They divorced in 1980.  

At a young age, Ron worked as a farmhand and later as a heavy equipment operator with locals 701, 302 and 612.  

Ron married Janet in 1989 in Fairbanks, Alaska.  While he was working for Great Northwest, Inc., they built two homes and later enjoyed time together traveling in their motor home.

Ron enjoyed being on the road and exploring new places. Upon arriving in Libby, Ron knew it was the place he wanted to call home.  He and Janet settled here in 2007.

He will be greatly missed and remembered with love.

Survivors include his wife, Janet; son, Fabian; daughter-in-law, Yvonne; and family; stepson, Jim and family; stepdaughter, Ginger and family.

A celebration of Ron’s life is planned for a later date.  

Arrangements are by Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home & Crematory in Libby.