John Edward “Jack” Kendley
courtesy photo
Jack Kendley
HELENA — John Edward “Jack” Kendley went home to his Creator on Dec. 20, 2015. Jack was born Oct. 29, 1950, in Billings, Montana.
Jack was a professional forester for 31 years. He worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs as a forester on the Navajo, Salish-Kootenai, and Blackfeet Reservations. Later he worked for the U.S. Forest Service in Townsend and Helena, Montana.
Jack was passionate about helping others. He loved to teach young people about forestry and ecology. He was involved in educational programs for youth in Helena. After one such presentation he received a letter of gratitude from a young student proclaiming, “I’m glad you own the forest!”
He faithfully volunteered at the Food Share in Helena and frequently gave to charity and wildlife causes.
Jack was an avid outdoorsman who floated wild rivers all over North America, from the Yukon to the Grand Canyon.
Jack’s parents, Ed and Doris Kendley, precede him in death.
Jack’s brother, Steven and sister-in-law, Mary of Polson; his niece, Haley Kendley of Polson; his nephew, Sam (Chelsea) of Vancouver, Washington; his great-nephew James of Klamath Falls, Oregon; his uncle Frank Gosnell of Yuma, Arizona; and several cousins survive him.
The family suggests to anyone who would like to honor Jack’s memory to donate to the Food Share of Helena or your local food bank.
A celebration of Jack’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Jan. 16 at 2005 Hauser Blvd., in Helena, Montana.
Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.thelakefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.
