John Charles McRell

John Charles McRell, lifelong resident of Libby, died Monday, Jan. 23, 2017. He was 84 years old.

John was born on Feb. 19, 1932 to John M. and Esther McRell. He graduated from Libby High School in 1950 and immediately went to work for J. Neils Lumber Company in their logging operation. He proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War as an Instrument Mechanic. After the war he returned to Libby and continued his career in logging. He helped build many of the roads in the area and took great pride in his work. He worked for J. Neils, St. Regis and Champion Lumber.

John married the love of his life Fern Cann on Sept. 21, 1957. They had two sons John Walter and James David. John had three passions; his family, Libby and working in the woods.

A private graveside service was held on Jan. 26. John is survived by his sons; John Walter (‘Nita), James David (Stacy), grandsons; Jason, John Matthew, Michael and great grandson John Liam.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Esther, five sisters; Eleanor, Ruth, Alice, Joyce and Wilma and by his wife of 53 years Fern.

A special thank you from the family to next door neighbor Ann Simpson, Cabinet View employees; Jane, Cricket and Jessica, Home Options employees; Charlie and Becky and all the employees of the Venture Inn restaurant. You are all amazing people!

Arrangements are by Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home in Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.