Kevin "Oly" Imlay

Kevin "Oly" Imlay, 53, a Great Falls painter and carpenter, died of melanoma cancer Wednesday, April 4, at his home.

His memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel. Schnider Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

On Oct. 5, 1958, Kevin was born in Big Timber to Don and Evelyn (Loveseth) Imlay. He graduated from C.M. Russell High School in 1977.

He married Brenda Thompson and they later divorced. Kevin and Brenda were blessed with two children.

"Oly" worked for McGurran Painting and McGurran Precision Painting for 20 years, and was well-known as an exceptionally skilled painter and carpenter. He was an outgoing, extremely good-natured and patient father, grandfather, brother, friend and neighbor. Although he lost a long, hard-fought battle to cancer, he never lost his vibrant thoughtfulness and compassion for people.

Oly was an endearing and kind spirit, who was always eager to lend a helping hand. He always put others before himself, and he was rarely seen without wearing a smile. He kept everyone laughing, even in his final days. He was an antique collector and gun enthusiast who enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, playing horseshoes, road trips, warm campfires, cold beer and good company. He also found joy spending time with his beloved grandchildren, and he could often be found remodeling his lovely home, where he frequently welcomed and hosted numerous family and friends.

He is survived by longtime companion Lauri Cary of Great Falls; daughter Tonya Kay Imlay of Great Falls; son David Imlay and his wife Jennifer of Great Falls; sister Conni McDowell and her husband Rich of Great Falls; brothers Ron Imlay of Great Falls, and Jon Imlay and his wife Olivia of Havre; grandchildren Saber Garza, Buddy Imlay, Camryn Imlay and Dakotta Imlay; and devoted best friend, his dog, "Shorty."

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a granddaughter, Angel Imlay.

Condolences may be posted online at www.schniderfuneralhome.com and/or www.gftribune.com/obituaries.