Brian Duncan Orvis

Brian Duncan Orvis, was born on April 19, 1954, To Earl (Buddy) Orvis and Marilyn Jean Duncan. He was born in Conrad, Mont., and passed away peacefully on Jan. 11, 2025, in Shelby, Mont., with his sister, Angie, and nephew, Skip, by his side.

Brian loved life, his children and his grandkids most, but his favorite person throughout his life would be his big brother, Mike, who was protective of Brian always! Brian had a special bond with is youngest son, Colton. They loved to meet up in Las Vegas, people-watching, beer drinking and laughing. He will probably be most remembered for his poker game, his witty sense of humor, and the middle finger. He loved a good practical joke and was always pranking those he loved. Brian was a friend to everyone and knew everyone in town! Brian was the best brother and uncle around, never afraid to swoop the kids up and head out on a road trip. It was during one of these trips where niece, Sydney, would nickname him “Ninen," and it would be his favorite nickname. He held many jobs over the years, but his favorite would be his time at Crossroads Correctional Center as a corrections officer. Until his death he kept track of his friends from the prison.

 He graduated from Shelby High School in 1973, and spent most of his adult like in Shelby, He loved calling Shelby home! He was a Coyote through and through and also loved to follow the Griz and the Dallas Cowboys.

He was preceded in death by both parents, Earl and Marilyn; two sisters, Julie and Shelly Orvis, and his oldest son, Buddy. The loss of Buddy was extremely tough for him.

He is survived by his three children, Joseph Cline, of Texas, Ceara Atkinson (Jeff), of Minnestoa, and Colton Orvis of California; his five grandchildren, William, Harlynn, Isabella, Brooklyn and Ethan; brother, Michael Orvis (Mavis) of Columbia Falls, Russell Stoddard (Sarah) of Boise, Amy Lourbis of Idaho, and Angie (Tom) of Shelby; nieces, Katie, Morgan, Lindsay and Sydney; nephews, Skip and Travis; and last, but not least, his special friend, Susan Kloos, from Cut Bank.

Brian’s death was quick and peaceful, and he would not want anyone to be sad. He would want them to celebrate, chocolate donuts and a Diet Pepsi were his favorite, so have one for Brian!

There will be a memorial gathering in June, date and time TBA. Memorials suggested to the Roxy Theater in Shelby.

I think Skip said it best when he said goodbye to Brian. He said, "As you go through the pearly gates you better keep those middle fingers in your pockets and be careful who you call dumba$$!”

The world was a better place because of Brian, he may have left this world, but he is in our hearts forever!