Donald Ward Hill

Donald Ward Hill passed away Friday, March 6, 2026, from complications of surgery in Kalispell, Montana. He was born October 1, 1946, to Pauline and Dayton Hill in Whitefish, Montana. Don married his love, Brenda Anderson, on November 25, 1967. Their first daughter, Heidi, arrived in 1968, and their second daughter, Kami, joined in 1972. Don spent the majority of his working years in "the woods." He started with St. Regis Lumber Company on the logging crew as a hooker, then skidding, and eventually found his true passion as a sawyer. He later worked in the log yard for Champion Lumber Company as a crane operator. Don was a hard worker and kept busy until his retirement in early 2000s. In between work and golf, Don volunteered every opportunity to help coach his girls softball teams as well as support their golf activities.

Don spent most of his childhood either on his grandparent's farm in Whitefish or on the golf course in Libby. He and his parents and brothers helped build the original nine of Cabinet View Country Club. Don was an exceptional golfer and loved to spend time with his family and friends on the course. He has won many local tournaments over the years. He taught us all the love for golf. He was the best at putting with a beer in one hand and a putter in the other (hidden talent).

Don was the biggest smart alek. Always razzing someone, just to get a laugh. He asked every niece, nephew, and cousin that entered the house if they've had their beat'n yet today. Makes you giggle every time! Joking was his favorite activity for sure. He was noted for some clever one liners, "Ty-ota" was his favorite affirmative answer. He had an amazing singing voice and always had a song to share. He gave the most unforgettable bear hugs. He made an amazing potato salad that the family requested at every get together. He was super smart with amazing wit. He always made sure that we remembered that he was the mathematician in the family. He had a charming smile and the most generous heart. He made everyone feel special and important. He had a love for the outdoors enjoying picnics and drives with Brenda, or daily firewood gathering and salmon fishing with his best buddy Tom. He also loved to hike and hunt. He bagged many nice bulls and bucks over the years. No one ever got the secret spot out of him though.

He shared his love for the outdoors with his cherished grandsons Chaz and Trey. He spent every opportunity that he could with his boys, teaching them to hunt and fish and engage in their activities. He enjoyed attending their many sports events with Brenda. They traveled all over to watch them compete. Don's proudest moments are apparent when he speaks of his cherished grandsons. These boys were his whole world and lit the twinkle in his eye. He was a proud proud grandpa.

Don is preceded in death by his parents and brother Gary. He is survived by his wife Brenda of 58 years; brothers Jim and Wayne, and sister Jo. He is also survived by daughters Heidi (Dan) Picchietti, and Kami (Shawn) LaDue; granddaughter Jessica (Wyatt) Lytton and along with little Ike; his grandsons Chaz and Trey LaDue; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and Auntie Marilyn.

We will miss his wit, his warm hugs, his generous nature, and that famous eye roll. He was the best husband, dad, grandpa and friend anyone could ask for. We will forever cherish our memories of you DW!

A celebration will be held in early summer for storytelling and remembrance . Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg and Riddle Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.