Kerry J. Lane

1954 - 2009

Kerry J. Lane of Belgrade, formerly of Clancy, passed away Jan. 29, 2009, after suffering complications from a rare form of cancer.

He was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to William and Cheryl Lane on Nov. 23, 1954. Upon graduating from high school in Pocatello, Idaho, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was medically retired and returned to Pocatello.

As a private pilot, his passion for airplanes and flight sparked a life-long vocation in the airline industry. During his time with Western and Delta airlines, he touched the lives of many with his kind and compassionate manner. From fellow employees, management and wayward travelers, all admired and respected his abilities on and off the job.

Kerry and his wife, Katie (Boettcher), were married on March 6, 1986, in Cannon Beach, Ore. They had twins, Kelsey Nicole and Trevor Colin Lane, born on Sept. 4, 1989, in Helena.

Residing in Clancy, the Lane family of four began what would prove to be a very busy and exciting venture. From soccer and baseball coach to ballet recitals, Kerry was ever supportive of both his children. Boy Scouting played a big part in Kerry's life as he accompanied Trevor on many campouts, albeit freezing weather and antiquated lodging.

In 2005, the family relocated to Belgrade in order to follow Kerry's career.

As the twins' interests expanded and matured, so did Kerry's commitment and involvement in their activities. He never missed an opportunity to encourage them in their sporting, academic and theatrical performances. The pride he felt for his children never wavered, and was the highlight of his life.

Kerry, an avid sportsman with particular interests in hunting and fishing, spent much of his free time in the water and woods of Idaho and Montana. Other hobbies he enjoyed were woodworking and drawing, always with a keen eye for perfection. Kerry's endless supply of quick wit and humor entertained all who shared time with him.

Kerry is survived by his wife, Katie Lane of Belgrade; his two children, Kelsey Lane of The University of Montana, and Trevor Lane of Montana State University; his parents, Bill and Cheryl Lane of Pocatello, Idaho; father-in-law, John Boettcher of Clancy; siblings, Mark Lane and family of Blackfoot, Idaho, Leslie Freeman and family of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Shelly Yee and family of Portland, Ore. Kerry also treasured his many close relatives in South Carolina, Colorado and Connecticut.

It is difficult to articulate how many lives Kerry has touched; his amiable manner drew and comforted acquaintances, kind and caring medical staff, and loved ones alike.

A memorial service and burial will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral, 511 N. Park Ave., Helena. A reception will follow at St. Peter's.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to organizations of the donor's choice that best personify Kerry's character; or to the Billings Clinic, P.O. Box 3700, Billings, MT 59107, with specific emphasis towards the intensive care unit, dialysis center or occupational health rehabilitation.