Walter Lawrence Plaggemeyer

Walter Lawrence Plaggemeyer was born November 6, 1930 in Big Timber, MT and went to meet his Heavenly Father on July 18, 2025; peacefully at home surrounded by family. He was born to Dick and Delia (Moss) Plaggemeyer. Walter liked to tell the story that his mother could not vote that year as she was delivering him. Also born to this union were three sisters and two brothers.
Walter attended Wheeler Butte school, riding his horse to school most days. He lost his father when he was twelve and Walter and his siblings took on many responsibilities at the ranch. It was there that he first learned to be resourceful and innovative, often making something from nothing. Walter completed 8th grade and then, like many of his siblings, he went to work at an early age. He worked custom-combining, night shift at the flour mill in Harlowton, and was always willing to lend a hand to neighbors and friends in need while helping to maintain the family ranch.
He married Ruth Hathaway on March 29, 1961. After the couple were married, Walter often helped his father-in-law Vernie Hathaway on the Hathaway Ranch. They welcomed Larry, Lori, Linda and Rick to complete their family. Walter dedicated his life to his family and the ranch. He never stopped making improvements and was always looking for ways to enhance production on the ranch. When challenges arose, often he problem-solved while sleeping, waking up with a solution.
Walter had a deep Christian faith with a desire for his family and friends to invite Jesus into their lives. He had a kind, gentle, patient spirit and great appreciation for others. He loved his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren very much. It always brightened his day to have family and friends come to visit.
Walter was a fun-loving card player and enjoyed most the social time that came with it. He had a strong work ethic and a passion for all aspects of ranching. Cutting firewood was one of his favorite things. He enjoyed the many road trips he and Ruth took with Wanda and David Hathway. Walter loved eating home-cooked meals, especially homemade pies, bread, and cinnamon rolls.
Walter was a skilled woodworker and crafted many treasures for his family including dressers and nightstands for his wife, children and each and every grandchild. His family cherishes the many wooden toys, gun cabinets, tool chests, frames, shelves and numerous other items he made with his large, loving hands.
Walter is preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Bertha (Clifford) Elliott, Helen (Russell) Elliott, Beulah (Jim) Howe, sister-in-law, Marilyn Plaggemeyer, brother, Tom Plaggemeyer, son-in-law, Richard Kinsey, and grandson-in-law, Master Sergeant Jon Dunbar.
He is survived by his wife, Ruth, children: Larry (Kim), Lori Kinsey, Linda (Joe) Melvin, Rick (Karen), brother, Richard Plaggemeyer, sister-in-law, Barb Plaggemeyer, thirteen grandchildren, twenty-eight great grandchildren and extended family.
A memorial service will be held 10:00 am Wednesday July 23, 2025 at the Big Timber Evangelical Church.
Donations in memory of Walter can be sent to Montana on a Mission or your local fire department.