David Arthur McNally

David Arthur McNally, 60, passed away peacefully Sunday, Dec. 1, 2002, at home, with his family by his side.

Dave was born to James and Elizabeth McNally on Oct. 31, 1942, in Billings. Dave and his three siblings were raised by their mother after James was killed in WWII. Dave attended Fratt Elementary School and played baseball at Lissa Little League Field. He was an All-State basketball player at Billings Central High School and twice led the Billings American Legion baseball team to the World Series. He went on to an illustrious career with the Baltimore Orioles, including four World Series, three All-Star games, and four consecutive 20-win seasons. He is the only pitcher ever to hit a grand slam home run in the World Series. To his teammates, Dave was best known for his determination and unassuming nature.

Dave married his high school sweetheart, Jean Hoffer, on Dec. 30, 1961. They enjoyed 40 years together and raised five children. After retiring from baseball in 1975, Dave and his family returned to Billings, where Dave joined his brother, Jim, as co-owner of Archie Cochrane Ford. Dave enjoyed many entertaining rounds of golf with his buddies. He was a dedicated father who followed his kids around the state in support of their various activities. A highlight of his last few years has been spending special time with Jean in Rancho Mirage, Calif., where Dave thrived on daily golf and cherished visits from family and friends.

Dave was always generous with his time and resources. During his playing days in Baltimore, he was chairman for the Crippled Children-Ester Seal Campaign and actively served as a volunteer in many other capacities. In Billings, Dave supported many causes, including the Boys and Girls Club, American Legion Baseball, Ronald McDonald House and Billings Central High School. He also served on the Montana Highway Commission and Billings Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the Yellowstone Country Club, and The Hilands Golf Club in Billings and The Springs Club in Rancho Mirage. Dave happily gave of his time to the many aspiring baseball players who came to him for help and encouragement.

Dave was very successful in his baseball and business careers, but he always said that his greatest accomplishment was his family. There was nothing he looked forward to more than a house full of his children and grandchildren. Dave was very proud of his children and they always knew they could count on him.

Dave is survived by his dear mother, Elizabeth McNally of Billings; adoring wife, Jean; children, Jeff (Cass) of Salt Lake City, Pam Murphy (Dan) of Billings, Susan Lisi (Paul) of Walnut Creek, Calif., Anne Anderson (Craig) of Leander, Texas, and Mike of Billings; grandchildren, Caitlin, Bowen, Nick, Liam, Krista, Roman, Mairead, Trent and Paris. He is also survived by his sister, Dee Noble of Billings, and brothers, Jim (Judy) of Billings, and Dan of Twin Peaks, Calif.; and his special companion and pet, Freddie.

Dave's strengths were never more evident than during the past few years as he battled cancer. He didn't complain and fought his illness with the dignity and quick wit for which he was famous. His family cannot begin to express their gratitude and respect for everyone involved in his care at the Billings Oncology Center and those that previously cared for him at the Northern Rockies Cancer Center. Their skills and caring gave all of us more time with this great man. The family would like to thank Dave's many treasured friends for their loving attention.

Dad, you're our hero.

A funeral mass will be offered at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 2210 Colton Boulevard. Rite of Committal to follow the mass at Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park. Viewing will be held at the mortuary on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., also, at the church prior to the funeral mass starting at 9:30 a.m.

Memorials may be sent to the Ronald McDonald House, 1144 N. 30th, Billings, MT 59101, Boys and Girls Club, 505 Orchard Lane, Billings, MT 59101 or to the American Legion Baseball Program, PO Box 22535, Billings, MT 59104.

Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.