Frederick D. Bumbarger

Frederick D. Bumbarger, aged 88, of Great Falls, Montana, passed away on December 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born December 1, 1937, in Mapleton, Pennsylvania, to Frederick Owen Bumbarger and Rebecca Maines Bumbarger.

Fred grew up with four brothers. The family was poor, and in the early years did not even have indoor plumbing. After high school he joined the US Air Force and was stationed in Alaska. Later he was stationed in Great Falls at Malmstrom Air Force Base, where he met the love of his life, Patricia White Bumbarger. They were married on June 9, 1957. Pat preceded him in death in 2012 after the lengthy illness. They had three children. Fred got out of the military after the birth of their child. He stayed in Great Falls, becoming the manager of the Carpet Furniture Barn for many years and helping Pat’s family with the farm at harvest.

Fred also attended the College of Great Falls and took business and accounting classes. In 1985, he bought Payless Furniture which he cultivated and expanded into a successful business. It became a family business with three generations working together to continue to grow its success. He loved to talk about business and the furniture industry, which he was involved in for 67 years. He was still involved at the time of his death. He passed his work ethic down to the whole family and loved them dearly. Dad will be missed.

Fred is survived by his children, Camie (Randy) Eustance, Tonya Bumbarger, and Brent (Beverly) Bumbarger; grandchildren, Chanee Eustance, Everett (Jessica) Eustance, Arielle (Adrain) Mast, and Matthew Bumbarger; great-grandchildren, Brianne and Evan Eustance; and brothers, Roger and Braden Bumbarger.

Dad was entombed at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Mausoleum alongside his loving wife, with family present for a private service. He requested no public service.

The family suggests any memorials be made to the Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Formerly JDRF), Northwest Chapter 1215 4th Avenue Suite 1400, Seattle, Washington, 98161.