John Thomas McGrew of Kalispell, MT, 70, was “welcomed home by our Heavenly Father”
on Friday, December 23rd, 2016.
John was born to the late John F. McGrew and Virginia L. Thompson on June 14, 1946 in Cody, Wyoming. John is survived by his wife, Linda L. McGrew; his children Mona Harris, Jenny Hodge, Matthew Hodge, Jacob McGrew, Tessy Shipman, Connie Kraucunas, Vivian Poston Gelormino, Valerie Poston Faisal, Vickie Poston Buck,Micheal Poston; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was married to Karen Halberg from 1968 through the early 70’s and they were
blessed with Mona, Jenny, and Matthew. From 1976 through 1994 he was married to
Helen Ostrander and they were blessed with Jacob, Tessy, and Connie. Because a
third time's a charm, he married Linda L. Mattovich in which he stated “she was
the best thing that has ever happened me” and gained four bonus children to help
raise: Vivian, Valerie, Vickie, and Micheal.
In the early and mid 60’s he served this great country by enlisting in the Navy. His service included time on the USS De Haven (DD-469), USS BryceCanyon
(AD-36), and other vessels. He enjoyed his service and sharing stories of the great adventures he had. Throughout his life worked as a riveter, molded plastics and bronze in foundries, worked in the oil fields of North Dakota and Wyoming,
raised farm animals, had an Amway business, and crafted log furniture.
He loved to laugh, tell jokes and stories, watch a good western, dance, fish, and
listen to the Bible. He enjoyed barbecue and homemade potato salad. He is
remembered as a man that loved children; he loved to spoil them with candy and
show them love through acts of kindness. He was an active and dedicated member
of Stillwater Free Lutheran Church. He will be greatly missed by his family and
friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.
A memorial is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 28th, 2016 at Stillwater Free Lutheran Church with a reception following to celebrate John’s life.
To send a note of condolence to the family, please visit
www.buffalohillfh.com
. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.