Bruce Bilyeu

Bruce Everl Bilyeu (1943 – 2025) passed away peacefully at his home on the range near Meeteetse on December 17th and broke many of our hearts in so doing. Family and friends were coming from as far away as Pittsburgh and Atlanta to enjoy another Christmas with an ageless cowboy that could always make you smile with the stories he shared. Uncle Bruce to many, Boots to others, he grew up on a plot of land outside Wolf Point, MT helping the family raise every manner of grain and livestock, fending off the freezing cold and voracious mosquitos. Born to "Bud" and Edna Bilyeu he was the youngest in a family of three brothers and one sister. He joined the U.S. Peace Corp. where they sent him to Morocco for 2 years on its very first mission. He learned French and Arabic, traveled Europe during his time off and lived another life.

He started MSU intending on becoming a veterinarian, but spent his final year in Viet Nam instead, serving his time in the Army's artillery division. The family bought a large ranch near Meeteetse in 1974 and he has lived between here and Cedaredge, Colorado ever since. Bruce is survived by his sister Polly Jensen, and a flock of nieces and nephews that he had a strong and guiding hand in raising. He has inspired everyone that has been around him being known for his kindness, patience and generous nature. He could opine on any subject because he was so well read and he liked to argue for the sake of arguing. It's often been said to our children, "be more like Bruce." It's what we need world-wide. More people acting with kindness and a sense of humor that allows them to laugh at themselves. We love you Boots.

Cremation services are with Ballard Funeral Home.