Edward Dean Cumming

Edward Dean Cumming, 75

Edward (Eddie or Ed) Dean Cumming, age 75, of Columbia Falls, MT passed away peacefully August 1, 2025 at his Flathead River home.

Born on February 3, 1950 in Sheridan, WY, Ed was adopted at a young age by his late parents, James Cumming and Jean Cumming (Mackie).

After graduating from Columbia Falls High School in 1968 he enlisted in the United States Army where he served during the Vietnam War. He received an honorable discharge after sustaining an injury from a landmine, which resulted in the loss of his left leg below the knee. Ed was a dedicated volunteer, notably with Dream (Disabled Recreational Environmental Access Movement) on Big Mountain, a program which was brought to the Flathead Valley in 1987. The organization provided adaptive equipment to youth skiers with disabilities. He was fondly known on the mountain as "three-tracks" due to his unique style, a single regular ski and poles with small skis or outriggers.

Motorcycles were a lifelong passion for Ed along with many other hobbies. He worked as a mechanic with Kalispell Cycle Center and met regularly with the Antique Motorcycle Club where he rode a 1977 Honda Matic CB750a. He was also a founder of the North Valley Sportsman Club and served as president of the Montana Veterans Home Memorial Foundation for over 10 years.

Professionally, he retired from the Forest Service with 26 years of service as a Public Information Officer at the Hungry Horse Office.

He and his wife Loree were members of Our Savior Lutheran Church.

He never met a stranger and was always ready to drop everything to lend a helping hand.

Edward is survived by his children: Dennis Cumming, Kim Murphy, and Michelle Kruse; grandchildren: Kyle Cumming, Alyssa Cumming, and Gavin Murphy; and siblings: Alvin Smith and Jewell Doty to include several half brothers and sisters. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Loree earlier this year.

A Celebration of Life for both Ed & Loree will be held Friday, November 7th from 2p-5p at the Montana Veterans Home Service Building, 400 Veterans Way in Columbia Falls. To send online condolences, please visit www.columbiamortuary.com.