Thomas M. "Tommy" Church

Thomas "Tommy" M. Church, 38

Thomas "Tommy" Church, 38, passed away unexpectedly on July 2, 2025. He was born in Whitefish, Montana, and raised in Martin City, where he built a life rooted in family, hard work, laughter, and a deep love for the mountains, the river, and the open road.

Tommy worked as a fleet superintendent and heavy equipment operator-a job that matched his strength, skill, and relentless work ethic. He was also passionate about trucking and found true peace in the driver's seat, whether navigating winding back roads or long stretches of highway. As a boss, he led with fairness and grit, but always with a heart for his crew. He looked out for everyone, made people feel seen and valued, and never hesitated to step in and help-no matter how dirty or difficult the job. He believed in doing things right, showing up early, and giving 100%-a standard he carried in everything he did.

Tommy was a big man with a powerful presence-loud, strong, and sometimes intimidating at first glance. But underneath that tough exterior was a teddy bear with the softest heart. He was loyal, genuine, kind, compassionate, and full of warmth. He cared deeply and loved fiercely.

He was also absolutely hilarious. His quick wit, goofy faces, ridiculous voices, and perfectly timed one-liners made him the life of every room. Whether he was cracking a joke, pulling a face, or putting on an absurd accent, he had a rare gift for making people laugh-often when they needed it most. He brought joy and light into every space he entered, reminding people not to take life too seriously.

He loved music, gold panning, classic cars, motorcycles, concerts, long drives with no destination, and spending time near the river. It was there, by the water, where he often found stillness and clarity.

Tommy was a man of deep devotion-not just to his family, but especially to his wife, whom he loved with unwavering commitment. He protected her, stood by her, made her laugh when she wanted to cry, and loved her through every season. Their love was bold, honest, and deeply rooted, and it carried them through life with strength and grace.

He was also a man of faith. Though his path, like many, was not without struggle, Tommy believed in Jesus Christ and found comfort in that faith. He carried it quietly but firmly, and it gave him strength in his hardest moments.

More than anything, Tommy was a proud and devoted father. He poured himself into his children with everything he had. He stood tall and loud at the ball field, wrestling mat, and football field-cheering on his sons with unmatched pride, teaching them what it meant to be strong, kind, and true. He was their biggest fan, their role model, and their safe place.

And when it came to his daughter, Tommy's adoration was unmatched. She had him wrapped around her finger, and he wouldn't have had it any other way. He protected her fiercely, encouraged her joyfully, and danced with her in the living room like no one was watching. She was his heart, and everyone knew it.

Tommy was also a loving and devoted son. He held a special and tender love for his mother-a bond filled with laughter, respect, and deep connection. He had deep admiration and gratitude for his father, who helped shape the hardworking man he became.

One of the most important relationships in Tommy's life was with his grandfather, who helped raise him and taught him the values that became the foundation of who he was-hard work, loyalty, grit, and grace. Their bond was unbreakable, and his influence left a lifelong imprint on Tommy's heart.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marissa Radabah Church; his children, Corbin, Beau, and Emersen; his parents, Cathleen and Michael Nash; his sister and brother-in-law, Shelby and Jeremiah Jones; his in-laws, Robert and Tanya Radabah; his brothers-in-law and their wives, Dustin and Nikki Radabah, and Logan and Samantha Radabah; and his beloved nieces, Adalynn, Scarlett, Finley, and Hadley.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Tom and Mary Jane Church; his great-uncles, Fred and Richard Hartman; and his uncle, Louis Church.

Tommy's life was full of love, laughter, and strength-but even the strongest shoulders can carry invisible weight. His story is a reminder to check in on the people you love, to speak kindly, and to be gentle-with others and with yourself. If you're walking through a hard season, please know that you're not alone. There is always a way forward, even when it feels far away. You are needed. You are loved. Hold on.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, July 19th 4:00 pm at Valley Life Church, 1750 Talbot Rd Columbia Falls, MT. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Tommy by doing something he loved-tell a joke, take a long drive, play your favorite song too loud, or spend a quiet moment by the river. And if you're hurting, please talk to someone. Let Tommy's life be a reason to hold on.