Kevin Wayne Van Uden

Kevin Wayne van Uden, 58, left our world suddenly and shockingly on December, 28th 2024. Seems he felt it was time to "meander on home".
Kevin was born in Chico, CA November 15, 1966. He was kicked out of the womb by his twin sister Dodie, and into the arms of his parents, Larry and Connie van Uden. He spent his younger years in California, and Nevada before finally settling in Montana. Fate did change course for his family, and his parents parted ways sending him to Missoula, MT and then to Libby, MT with his mother. At the prime age of 13, Kevin made the decision to move to Emigrant, MT to let his father try to tame the wild child that he was. He had many fond memories of those days of youth. There were many stories about his adventures with his sister, brothers, and dear friends. He particularly cherished the time he was able to spend at Silvertip Guest Ranch, working as a junior ranch hand while his aunt and uncle were managing the retreat.
Kevin graduated from Park High School in Livingston, MT in 1986. Afterward, he loaded up his Ford Maverick and headed to Casper, WY to earn his welding certifications. Over the years he stayed practiced with his welding, but he picked up other skills along his travels. Carpentry, logging, tinkering, and flying were among some of them. He truly was a Jack of All Trades. He worked on jobs and projects on the west coast, and all the way to Maryland on the east coast, but his heart would always be in Montana.
Kevin eventually found himself in Wyoming pulling snow fence for Wild West Woods, and that is where he met Casey, a college student at the University of Wyoming. The courtship was brief, and the decision was quick that they should just go ahead and get hitched. Kevin and Casey packed up a camp trailer, his trusty "old green" Suburban, and her "piece of crap" Ford Bronco with everything they owned, and moved home to Paradise Valley. They were married on July 26th, 1997, and just a few months later welcomed their first daughter, Kristine, into the world. As it does, life goes on, and 4 years later they introduced Kimberly. Kevin worked hard, played hard, and built a wonderful home and life for his family in Emigrant.
Some people consider wealth in terms of money and possessions. Kevin was rich in friends and family. He was always quick with a joke, a smile, or a hug. He would invite anyone he met to come crack a beer with him, and be "welcome at his campfire anytime". His absence in our lives will be felt for years to come.
Kevin leaves behind his wife, Casey van Uden, daughters, Kristine and Kimberly van Uden, mother, Connie Frederick, sister Dodie van Uden (Marvin), brother Shane Frederick (Tamitha), brother Robert Little, brother Bill Frederick (Patricia), sister Tammy Mack (Rick), numerous nieces and nephews, and at least a million friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Larry van Uden, brother Pat Little, step father Eugene Frederick, brother in arms, Randy Swainson, and his loyal dog, Bud.
A celebration of life is planned in the fairer weather of May. Announcements will be made as that day approaches.