Howard Wesley Paige

Howard was a dedicated husband to Joan (Humbert) Paige, whom he married on August 8, 1977. Howard and Joan had a devoted and loving marriage that modeled commitment, adventure, laughter and common goals to their children and grandchildren. Howard was incredibly committed to his loved ones and was well loved and respected by his entire family. He was known for his strong work ethic and his calm, gentle nature - a man who cared deeply without needing attention or praise.

A true hard worker, Howard spent 16 years as a surveyor for the State of Montana before moving into the lumber business, where he built a reputation for honesty and reliability. He owned Howard Lumber in Twin Bridges for 20 years and later Howard Lumber in Dillon for 20 years. Howard and Joan owned and operated Paige Rentals, managing several properties throughout the Dillon area. Together they took pride in maintaining quality homes for their tenants.

Outside of work, Howard and Joan enjoyed entertaining their friends and hosting the annual Horseshoe Party in their beautiful backyard in Dillon. Winters were spent in Yuma, Arizona where their core group of Dillon friends all gathered, purchasing homes in the same park enjoying the sunshine, swap meets and trips to Mexico. Let the party begin! As Howard would say "Every day is a Holiday".

Howard was exceptional with his woodworking skills, crafting many pieces for his family and friends with care and precision. Howard's generosity and good nature was second to none. He was a member of the elks and past president of the Montana Lumber Dealers Association. Howard loved taking drives, enjoying the Montana landscape and most importantly ... smoking his pipe.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Joan, his bother Glenn "Eddie", and his stepdaughter Peggy.

He is survived by his stepchildren Kathy (Johnson) Smith and her husband Ken, Richard Clark (widower of Peggy (Johnson) Clark), Carole (Johnson) Diede, Billy Johnson and his wife Darcy, daughter Noelle Staab, along with seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

His life was a testament to steady love, honest work, and the quiet strength of a kind generous heart. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Thank You Deb S., Amber B., the staff at Renaissance and Honeybee Hospice for all the care and support for Howard and our family.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, July 3rd, 2 p.m. at Mountain View Cemetery, Dillon, Montana. Arrangements are under the direction of Brundage Funeral Home, Dillon, Montana. Condolences for the family may be posted online at www.brundagefuneralhome.com