Francis Sichting

Francis Sichting

77, of Libby

Francis M. Sichting, 77, died on April 5, 2016, at his home in Libby. He was born to Frank and Bessie Sichting on the old Sichting homestead on Doak Creek in a log cabin on March 9, 1939. He was married on May 25, 1961, to Roberta Syverson.

Francis was the third of five children and is survived by his wife Roberta; his siblings, Frank Sichting and wife Rainey, brother Jim Sichting and sister-in-law Dixie Sichting; his four children, David Sichting and wife Linda, Linda Alkire and husband Bryan, Francene Lorenz and husband Monte, George Sichting and wife Sheila; son-in-law John Alex; nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Francis was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Bessie; brother Fred Sichting; son Baby Francis; sister Katherine Alex; sister-in-law Caroline Sichting and grandson Nathan Faulkner Alkire.  

Francis went to work for the Forest Service as a lookout attendant on Blue Mountain. Following that he worked for the railroad as a laborer. Then, he worked for J. Neils, St. Regis and Champion lumber companies for 35 years. While employed at the lumber companies, he had a variety of jobs including laborer, mechanic, blacksmith and oiler. He was active in the church and a pillar in the Libby Area Community Garden.

Francis was a sentimental and gregarious man that loved living the Montana dream. He enjoyed cutting wood, hunting, fishing, tying flies, anything with an engine, singing songs and socializing with anyone and everyone. He could be found explaining to car owners how modified their stock vehicles actually were, especially during the Ignite the Nites car show. He loved telling stories about the old times and events that took place in and around Libby. In the evening, he could be found watching westerns while eating his dinner, excitedly taking in the story even if it was the 10th viewing. Later in life he spent most of his time at the Libby Area Community Garden, enjoying the peacefulness of planting and the socialization. He also actively contributed to its construction during its formative stages and acted as a benefactor. Also, Francis Sichting was an avid player of Farmtown, owning 19 farms, worth over 11 million, and at level 404 was a product superstar.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date when the garden is in full bloom. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Libby Area Community Garden. Special thanks to the organizations Lincare, Home Options, CARD Clinic and the special people in his life, Mark Powell, Leny Pierce, Lexie McFarland, Dr. Rice, Dr. Highfill and all his neighbors at the Park Apartments that looked out for him. Arrangements are by Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home in Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.