Donald Fredrick Munsel, 82

Donald Fredrick “Red” Munsel, 82, died Jan. 1, 2020, at his home in Libby after a long time battle with asbestosis. He was born on Aug. 2, 1937, in Libby to Fred and Mary (Stout) Munsel.

He grew up in Libby and lived in Soda Springs, Idaho, with his mom and beloved stepfather Paul Thomas. He served his country after high school as a cook in the U.S. Air Force.

Red returned to Libby after being honorably discharged and married Rosemarie Thomson on March 4, 1959, after dating for just 11 days. They spent the next 60 years side-by-side. They were blessed with two children, Esther and Rex.

Red was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. In 1988, he and Rose were sealed for eternity in the Seattle temple.

Red worked several places in Libby, including the mill and Libby Dam, but his favorite place was logging in the woods. He started repairing chainsaws in his shop after he retired. Everyone knew where to go when they needed a chainsaw fixed.

He loved chainsaws and collected them everywhere he went. He even brought a carload of them home from Arkansas. If you needed a part, he had it or knew where to find it.

Red never met a stranger. He loved visiting with everyone. He will be deeply missed.

Red was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Naola Hansen and Jerry Aaron, and a grandson, Adam Munsel.

Survivors include his wife Rosemarie; daughter Esther Anderson of Marshall, Ark.; son Rex (Kayleen) Munsel of Libby; sister Shirley Fahland of Libby; grandchildren Josh (Dawn) Munsel of Libby; Katie (Jake) Miller of Moyie Springs, Idaho; Merle and Melinda Anderson of Summit, Ark.; nine great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be from 1 to 7 p.m., Jan. 7 at Schnackenberg Funeral Home in Libby. Services will be at 11 a.m., Jan. 8 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Libby.

Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.