Nick Thares

Nick Thares, aged 66, of Great Falls, MT, passed away on December 6, 2025, after a short hard-fought battle with cancer. He was born on April 9, 1959, in Great Falls to Nick and Pat Thares and grew up on the west side with his two older brothers, Bill and John. He graduated high school from C. M. Russell High School in 1977. In 1979, Nick married Joyce Zook, and together they had two boys, Peter and Jake. After several years of marriage, Joyce and Nick were later divorced. He later met Helen Buell, also of Great Falls, with whom he spent the rest of his years until parted by death.

Nick started his career as a mechanic with Zook Brothers Construction Co. Eventually, this led to his career at Falls Construction, where he worked for 35 years as a heavy equipment mechanic until his retirement.

In his retirement, Nick enjoyed tinkering, and impromptu visits with family and friends in his beloved shop. Nick’s gift was his ability to create, build, and fix anything. Aside from the shop, Nick and Helen’s other favorite place to be, was their friend’s cabin, where he was affectionately known as “the maintenance man”. He loved his sons and enjoyed nothing more than hanging out and having a beer with them. He was blessed with 4 granddaughters who he deeply loved. Nick touched many lives and will be dearly missed by all whose lives he touched.

Nick is survived by Helen; his children, Peter (Tiffinie) Thares and Jake (Andee) Thares; grandchildren, Madisyn, McKenna, Maicey, and Millee; and brothers, Bill Thares and John Thares. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Pat and Joe; and sister-in-law, Barbara Thares.

Honoring his wishes, there will be no formal service. Instead, a Celebration of Life, filled with food, jokes, and laughter, will be held in the Spring. The date and time will be announced once arrangements are finalized.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to his team at the Sletten Cancer Institute for their support during this time.