Dwayne Keith Ihly peacefully passed away on Friday, May 24, 2024 while listening to a recording of himself and Phyllis playing, "Jesus Loves Me." He passed away in Lewistown, MT at the age of 84.
Dwayne was born in Bowman, ND on July 26, 1939 to his loving parents, Sebastian and Ella Ihly.
He is survived by his children, Cheri Pallett (Mike) and Mike Ihly (Bridget); grandchildren, Matthew Pallett, Krista Nile (Kane, Grey, Scarlett, Indigo), Betony Martin (Mike, Bern, Fox),Trevor Ihly, Zach Ihly, Aneasha Dean (Ryan, Asher), Chance Love (Savannah, Riker), Kori Hartshorn, Miles Cooper (Malcom), Jason Ihly (Amy), Travis Peacock (James, KayLynn), Christina Peacock; and his brother, George Ihly (Kari, Karen, Doug, Denise).
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Phyllis Ihly; parents, Sebastian and Ella Ihly; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Harold and Olive Owens; and nephew, David Ihly.
Dwayne attended many schools in several states before his family settled in Bozeman, MT when he was a teen. His anchor throughout his travels was his love of music, especially the saxophone. In search of an accompanist for a festival solo, Dwayne met Phyllis Owens, a young pianist, whom he married 7 years later. Dwayne graduated from Bozeman High School and joined the Navy band where his ensemble escorted the Admiral on a tour of East Asia. After that he graduated with a degree in music from Montana State University. He married Phyllis, the love of his life, soulmate, and best friend June 9, 1962. Dwayne and Phyllis were devoted parents to Cheri and Mike, always keeping their family and faith as their first priorities.
Dwayne enjoyed a rewarding career teaching music in public schools (Harlowton, Gardner, Winifred, French Town, Judith Gap, and Alaska), giving private lessons, and at the music school he and Phyllis founded in Kingman, Arizona. In addition, he had a piano tuning and instrument repair business. Dwayne spent many summers working for the Forest Service both in the woods and on forest fire observation flights. He and Phyllis were dance musicians and entertainers for over 30 years. Dwayne loved adventure! He was an avid outdoorsman who loved camping, fishing and hunting. He touched all those he met with a sense of humor, a tune and a great adventure story.
The family greatly appreciates the outpouring of love that has been shown through visits, calls, and messages. At Dwayne's request, his family will have a private memorial celebration. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to a school music program of your choice.
Arrangements are under the care of Creel Funeral Home. Dwayne's family and friends can share memories and condolences at
www.creelfuneralhome.com
Published by Lewistown News-Argus from May 29 to May 30, 2024.