- Date Of Birth: June 12, 1928
- Date Of Death: May 23, 2017
- State: Montana
Kalispell lost one of its life-long residents May 23, 2017. John E. Alton joined his wife, Donna, in heaven where we are all sure his grand entrance was entertaining and flamboyant. He loved to joke and make people smile.
John owned and operated the first Conoco station in Kalispell on Main Street in the early 1950’s, worked at the Columbia Falls Aluminum plant for 30 years as a mechanic, and served as a Trustee for District #2 for Flathead Electric Coop. But, John’s true love was farming the family farm in Creston with all its beauty and scenic views. There was not a piece of farm machinery that John could not put a bandaid on and make useable for yet another crop. If you had a car problem you took it to John and he worked his magic. John would help you even if he didn’t know you. We know there is a tool belt waiting for him in heaven.
Free time was spent fishing on the reservoir and telling many a fish tale about it. He loved horseshoes, cheating at cards, hunting in The Bob and Great Bear wilderness and a ten-cent cup of coffee at Sykes where being a staunch Republican he enjoyed engaging Democrats in political banter.
John was preceded in death by his wife Donna of 62 years, parents Fred and Marie, and too many lifetime friends to name here, but he cherished them all.
He is survived by his son Donald Alton and daughter Marlene Horsfall (Allen). Granddaughters Crystal Allison (Andy) and Farrah Perry. Grandsons Tom Alton and Jack Alton (Kirsten), great grandchildren Shea Allison, Jack Jr Alton, Emalee Alton and Austin Alton. Sisters Margie Miciewicz and Joyce White (Jerry), niece Diane Brooks and grand-niece Meredith Brooks, and many other friends and extended family.
