Tom Carkulis

Our beloved father, Tom Carkulis, of Billings, passed away at St. John's Hansen Cottage, on Aug. 8, 2013, after a long life of 90 years. Tom was born in Great Falls on Jan. 18, 1923, the son of Greek emigrants, Peter and Ekaterini "Irene" (Androutsopolos) Carkulis. The family later moved to Butte where he was educated, and graduated from high school.

Tom went to work at the Anaconda Copper Company until 1942 when he entered the United States Navy. He served during World War II, and was honorably discharged in January of 1947. Following his military service, Tom attended the University of Montana on the G.I. Bill. He graduated from the U of M with a degree in Education. Tom would later go on to receive his Master's in Education from Eastern Montana College in Billings.

On a blind date, Tom met our mother, Jean Younglove, who later became his wife, on March 15, 1951. They were married for 60 years until her death in 2011.

He began his career teaching math and coaching in Roberts, Mont. It continued after moving to Red Lodge, and then to Billings in 1963. Tom taught and coached for many years at Lewis and Clark Middle School. His dedication as a teacher and coach impacted many students over the course of his career.

Tom enjoyed gardening and loved to share the fruits of his labor with family and friends. He greatly enjoyed watching the birds he would lure into his yard with a never ending supply of birdseed.

Tom Carkulis was preceded in death by his wife, Jean; his parents; siblings Ted, Gus, and Victoria Markellis. He is survived by his son James (Janet) Carkulis and grandchildren Claire, Olivia and Sophie of Helena; daughter Melissa Carkulis of Billings; as well as goddaughter Jeanne Zeeck of Billings.

The casket will be open for visitation at Michelotti-Sawyers on Friday, Aug. 16, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A Traditional Orthodox Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, (4th and Lewis Ave.). Burial will take place at Mountain View Cemetery, in Butte, Mont., on Monday, Aug. 19.

Memorials may be made to ZooMontana, 2100 S. Shiloh Rd., Billings, MT 59106.

Michelotti-Sawyers is assisting with arrangements. Condolences may be shared online at www.michelottisawyers.com or mailed to Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave., Billings, MT 59102, and will be forwarded to the family.