- Date Of Birth: May 23, 1939
- Date Of Death: February 10, 2023
- State: Montana
James Edward “Lucky” Stacy, 83, of Kalispell, MT passed away peacefully on Friday, February 10th surrounded by his family after a bitter fight with lung cancer.
Born May 23, 1939 in Helena, MT, Lucky was the eldest of four boys and a step sister (Hutton) born to Norman E. Stacy and Velma A. (Miller) Stacy Hutton and was raised in the Flathead Valley. While serving in the U.S. Army (1961-1967), he met his sweetheart Lois Ann Houskeeper and they married August 21, 1964 in Kalispell. They celebrated 46 years of comical romance until her passing in 2011. The two resided in Libby, MT for 17 years before returning to Kalispell for the remainder of their lives. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and provider to his two children, James was a seasoned Teamster and enjoyed trucking jobs that took him to Washington, Alaska, and the entire Montana Territory. He also worked as a chauffeur on the set of Heaven’s Gate in Kalispell for Kris Kristofferson and several others before settling into steady employment with Schellinger Construction of Columbia Falls until his retirement. After his wife, Lois’ passing, Lucky took on a new role as an unofficial mascot and full time patron of Nickel Charlie’s where he adopted a second family and many friends. He always said he was a “Fun-Gi” because he “grows on you” and he did. As unique as they come, Lucky, the jokester, had a hug for everyone and a story to tell. His heart and generosity were as big as his belly and he will be greatly missed.
Lucky is survived by his children Heather (Joe) Mongelli, Bryan Stacy (Ginny Larkey), “adopted” children Todd and Tanya Troyer, grandchildren Marisa Mongelli (Vincent DiMento), Logan Mongelli (Kiersten Connor), Pyper Stacy, his siblings Dennis (Debi) Stacy, Gene Stacy (Janet McInroy), Stepsister Carolyn Tonkinson (Rey Pederson), his best friend and cohort Ira Troyer, his sidekick Alesha White, many nieces and nephews and many beloved friends and extended family.
Lucky’s loyal love, friendship and jokes were given to all who crossed his path.
He was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Lois, in-laws Cliff and Louise Houskeeper, his brother Robert Stacy, brother in law Tom Tonkinson and many others who were precious to him.
The family wishes to extend their humble gratitude to the staff of North Valley Hospital in Whitefish, MT and the entire staff of Enhabit Hospice for their angelic service.
