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Obituary

Ralph A. Ovitt

JOLIET — Surrounded by his family, Ralph A. Ovitt of Joliet, Mont., left our world peacefully on Nov. 15, 2012 to be with our Heavenly Father. Ralph was born on Jan. 7, 1931 in Miles City to Floyd and Mable Ovitt. He met the love of his life, Lois Larson, and they were married on April 12, 1953 in Victor. Their loving marriage lasted for 49 years before Lois’ death in 2002.

Ralph leaves six children: Cheryl (Doug) Morigeau of Dixon, Sandi (Wayne Vanderburg) Ovitt of Pablo, Laurel Ovitt of Whitehall, Kathie (Jackson) Riley of Park City, Mike (Julie) Ovitt of Fargo, N.D., and Mark (Cindy) Ovitt of Joliet. He also leaves behind siblings Elizabeth Friesz of Alberton, Norman (Betty) Ovitt of Thompson Falls, and Joyce Zamelis of Alberton. Ralph has 17 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Ralph was preceded in death by his wife Lois, his mother and father, brother Neil Ovitt and sister Virginia Tredway.

Ralph attended college at the University of Montana in Missoula graduating with a degree in business administration. Ralph served in the Air Force as a second lieutenant stationed in Tachikawa, Japan, returning to Montana in 1959. Ralph owned and operated several businesses in Dillon. He then returned to college at Western Montana College, receiving his teaching certificate in the subject he loved most, shop/mechanics. Ralph taught in Dixon from 1970–1973 and then moved to Joliet. He taught at the Boys Ranch from 1973–1975 and then at the Billings Career Center where he continued to teach until he retired.

Ralph belonged to many community groups throughout his years.  He was a member of the Dillon Jaycees, school bus owner and operator, Joliet Fire Chief, VICA sponsor, Lions Club, VFW, board member of the Joliet Community Center, senior citizens, and was very active in the United Methodist Church.

Ralph was a dedicated family man who loved his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, sisters and brothers. Ralph loved the outdoors and spending time with his family. He loved his morning visits with his coffee group and enjoyed all the wonderful memories and stories. He never missed any family gatherings and loved to tell jokes. We will miss his stories of growing up on the eastern plains of Montana.

Family members would like to thank Beartooth Hospice, Home Health Care and the Billings Clinic cancer staff for their kindness and support of Ralph. 

Dad, now you’re at peace and pain no longer holds you, and we will never forget the love and kindness you showed us all. 

Services for Ralph will be held at the Joliet Baptist Church on Monday, Nov. 19, 2012 at 2 p.m. Memorials can be sent to Joliet Lions Club or the Fromberg Methodist Church. Smith Funeral Chapel-Laurel is in charge of local arrangements.

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