Born ‎1 Nov 1929 Anaconda, Deer Lodge County, Montana, died ‎22 Apr 2012 Anaconda, Deer Lodge County, Montana‎, age 82 years
Pipefitter, retired


Howard M. Stone, 82, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, April 22, 2012, attended by his loving wife, Mickie and granddaughter, Mikayla Midtlyng.

Born in Anaconda on Nov. 1, 1929, to Robert Erton and Hazel (Getter) Stone, he was raised and lived his entire life in Anaconda with the only exception being during his service in the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Army. He married Hilma "Mickie" Rooney in 1954, and they were blessed with three loving children. As many of Howard's friends said, "The smartest thing you ever did was marry Mickie." Anyone who knew Dad's demeanor can attest to this!

Howard loved caring for his yard and working in his garage. His hobbies included golf, fishing and hunting, although in his later years as many hunters do, he grew to prefer watching the deer from his dining room window. He was a member of the Holy Catholic Family Church, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the Anaconda Country Club, the Pipefitters Union, and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge 239. Howard's loyalty to his beloved Brotherhood of Elks was proven through the countless hours he so willingly donated to his Lodge.

Along with two of his brothers, Howard was also noted for the many pints of blood drawn for the Red Cross in 1962. He was never farther than a phone call away to assist anyone in need.

A known fighter, Howard fought cancer and subsequent illnesses with a resolve and determination that astounded even those who knew him. When he faltered, his faith provided him with the strength to continue the fight. He endured his sickness as he lived his life, with determination, courage, and a conviction that he would win in the end.

In retirement, Howard enjoyed several outstanding Alaskan fishing trips with the boys — sons, Bob and Dennis, son-in-law, Neil, and grandson, Ross. His tomboy grand-daughter, Mikayla, made the journey up north as well. Trips to the hunting cabin his son, Dennis, built in Packwood, Wash., were such a source of pride that Howard felt Dennis' skill and hard work should be and was rewarded with the gift of electricity.

He also made many trips to visit his son, Bob and family in Milwaukie, Ore., where he soon became a neighborhood fixture.

When not traveling, Howard and his shadow, daughter, Debbie, chased Lady Luck all over Anaconda with weekly forays to their favorite casinos. These two were also responsible for any trips to Washington or Oregon taking an additional day as there were mandatory stops along the way to scratch those "itchy hands."

As Howard's health declined, Neil "the favorite son-in-law" became his handyman. There was never any misunderstanding between the two of them as to who was "the boss."

Howard loved to talk about his son Dennis' mechanical and carpentry skills, "my son Bob's" business successes, and Debbie being the reason for his still being here. That a pipefitter "off the hill" had a son who shared the craftsman's bond and a son and daughter who obtained college educations was very gratifying. Howard loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In a lifetime of special moments, being asked to step forward at his grandson Ross' Eagle Scout ceremony to be honored and awarded the Mentor badge by his grandson was proof that the love was reciprocal.

Howard is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mickie; their children, Bob, wife, Mary (children, Natalie and Audrey), Dennis, companion, Susan (children, Trisha, Jamey, and Josh), Debbie, husband, Neil Midtlyng (children, Ross and Mikayla); great-grandchildren, Brendan and Austin Hoch, Kierra Kinzer, Troy Fulton and Colby Stone; brothers and sisters-in-law, Bob and Dorothy, and Lester and Laurie; sisters, Dorothy Johnson, Kay Lane, Betty and Bob Saxbury, Al Parker; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents; brothers and sisters-in-law, Harold (Katherine), Kenneth, Merle (Ida Mae); sisters, Rosalie and Darlene; mother and father-in-law, Frank and Mary Jane Rooney; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, George Rooney, Bernice Rooney, Frank and Nona Rooney, Russell and Pauline Rooney, Marvin and Agatha Funston, Esther Parker, Gert and George Lindgren, Bill and Vivian Shaw, Ed Lane, and Eileen and Charlie Waite.

Memorials: Donor's choice.

Celebration of Life: Parish vigil was at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 26, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 217 W. Pennsylvania St., Anaconda.

Funeral services were at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 27 at Holy Family Church.

Axelson Alternative Cremation is privileged to serve the Stone family.

Born ‎15 Dec 1934 Lewistown, Fergus County, Montana, died ‎after 2012‎, age at least 78 years
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