John Dale Horgus

On January 12, 2025, our brother and friend John Dale Horgus passed away peacefully at his home in Kalispell, Montana. He was surrounded by loving family and close friends.

In 1972 John graduated from Sunburst High school and pursued his education at the Montana Vocational Technical Center in Helena, Montana where he obtained a degree in aircraft mechanics.

After living and working in California for a brief time, John returned to the Sweet Grass area where he embraced his roots and worked alongside his father, George, and brother, Roger, on George’s farm. In 1995 John took a significant step in his farming journey by leasing Lyle and Loretta Aklestad’s farm. Through hard work and dedication, he later purchased the farm in 2020. John continued to expand and develop his farm with passion and perseverance. His commitment to the land was evident in every crop he cultivated and every improvement he made. Throughout his farming journey, John was fortunate to have the unwavering support of Jonathon Wipf, who worked alongside him for 27 years. Braydon Dunk was also hired by the farm in 2015. Unfortunately, health challenges eventually required John to step back from the work he loved so dearly. Despite these challenges, John's legacy of hard work and his contributions to the farming community remain a source of inspiration for all who knew him.

In 1986 John’s life was forever enriched when he became a father to Shane Anthony Horgus. From the moment Shane was born, John embraced fatherhood with immense love and dedication. Both John and Shane leave behind cherished memories that will forever be held in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.

Farming was John’s profession but he was a well known collector. He spent his whole life searching for antiques of all sorts and acquired an impressive collection. He was always happy to show friends and family his discoveries, from rare Hot Wheels to old pickups. Another pastime John enjoyed was being an active member of Shriners with his many friends.

During the challenging times of his health journey, John was blessed to find a loving companion in Cathy. Her unwavering love and care provided him with comfort and strength throughout the final years of his life. Cathy’s presence brought joy and warmth to John’s days, and her dedication to his well-being was a testament to the deep bond they shared. Her support and compassion were invaluable, and she will always be remembered with gratitude by those who knew and loved John.

John is survived by his soulmate, Cathy, whose love and companionship enriched his life immeasurably. He also leaves behind Cathy’s daughter, Morgan (Curtis) and children. John’s family includes his brother Roger (Janine) Horgus, their children Beth (Ryan) Loomis and family, and Dylan (Laura) Horgus and Trevor Horgus. He is also survived by his sister Gayle (Tim) Buckley, Michelle Line and her children Hunter and Bridger, as well as the children of his late sister Nancy: Bryan (Tasha) Whitt, Jessica Whitt, and her daughters. John is remembered fondly by his brother-in-law Randy Whitt and his lifelong friends Hank and Jacque Coolidge.

Welcoming John to heaven is his parents, George and Marguerite Horgus, and his grandparents, John and Louise Wolanski. Joining them are two people who held a special place in John’s heart: his cherished son Shane and his dear sister Nancy.

There will be a graveside service April 12, 2025, 1:00pm, at the Sweetgrass Cemetery where John will be buried beside his son Shane. Immediately following there will be a celebration of Johns life at the Sunburst community center where we can all share a meal. All family and friends are welcome. 

Donations can be made to the Shane Horgus Scholarship Fund and Sweetgrass American Legion.