Bayard S. Nearpass

RED LODGE - Bayard S. Nearpass, 76, of Red Lodge, passed away early Wednesday morning, Dec. 10, 2008, at Billings Clinic, with his family at his side.

Born on Nov. 25, 1932, in Lansing, Mich., he was the son of Vance and Elizabeth Shaw Nearpass. As a high school freshman, Bayard came to Powell, Wyo., from Indiana. He graduated from Powell High School in 1951. The following year, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving for four years. His naval service included time on the USS Hancock, and he was a member of the U.S. Navy wrestling team.

After his discharge, he attended Billings Business College and then was employed by the Yellowstone County Superintendent of Schools.

In 1957, Bayard married Doreen Hunter in Powell. They resided in Billings until moving to Red Lodge in 1962. Bayard was the State Farm Insurance agent in Red Lodge until retiring in 1997. He served the City of Red Lodge as a councilman and as mayor, and was a former member of the Red Lodge Lions Club and the Beartooth Elks Lodge. Bayard belonged to the Red Lodge Community Church, UCC.

After his retirement, Bayard and Doreen enjoyed many winters in Mesquite, Nev., where they met many new and caring friends. They also enjoyed traveling to many sporting events, music concerts and other activities the grandkids were involved with. The grandchildren will treasure times shared with grandpa and grandma on camping trips in Bayard's motorhome. "WOW," were those good times!

Survivors include his wife, Doreen Nearpass of Red Lodge; three sons and their wives, Troy and Brenda Nearpass and Brian and Shelly Nearpass, all of Billings, and Brent and Marge Nearpass of Red Lodge; six grandchildren, Britney, Katie, Ben, Austin, Brooke and Laura Nearpass; and one sister, Melba Smith. Bayard was also very close to the numerous nieces and nephews that also survive him.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, Esther, Bobbie and Lee.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, at the Red Lodge Community Church. Cremation has taken place. Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel is assisting with the arrangements.

Memorials may be given to the Red Lodge Public Schools Foundation Gym Fund, c/o Box 1090, Red Lodge MT 59068, or to the charity of one's choice.