Willard Warren Carter
MISSOULA- Willard passed away at his home Nov. 6, 2013, being cared for by his loving companion of 23 years. He was 84 years old.
Willard was born in Roundup on Sept. 21, 1929, to Clay and Huldah Toogood Carter. He was the fourth of 11 children. In 1930 Willard moved to Charlo with his family.
He graduated from Charlo High School and then joined the U.S. Army where he served in Korea until his discharge.
He married Carol Boyd in 1953 and they had eight children. They later divorced. There are 27 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his second wife Inez White Carter; his parents; and siblings Hester Carter, Delbert Carter, Fern Carter Stott, Ernie Carter, Gary Carter, Irene Carter Olson and great-grandson Jaden Galloway.
He is survived by his eight children: Carolyn Carter of Noxon, Nina Benjamin (Bud) of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Helen Carter Dobbins of Spokane, Wash., Willy Carter of Missoula, Betty Eisenzimer (Brian) of Lincoln, Ruth Willig (Glen) of Priest River, Idaho, Tim Carter of Deer Lodge and Donald Carter of Ovando; step-children Duane White, Linda White and Doug White; siblings Clarabelle Carter Barsness, Marvin Carter (Sue), Sharon Carter Guenzler (George) and Trudy Carter Farrier (Merle).
Mr. Bill, dad and grandpa was an awesome dancer and when he would attend the accordion players events or a dance, people would clear the floor to watch him and his partner glide across the hall. Babies and young children put a smile on his face. He retired from Champion as a millwright and had made many friends there. He had a magic touch for growing beautiful roses.
A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Leon Club House in Charlo.
