In Memory

Chester (Butch) Irgens - Class Of 1958

 

East GLACIER - Chester Bruce "Butch" Irgens, 69, an Army veteran and businessman,  passed away Monday, Aug. 10, 2009, at his home due to natural causes.

Memorial services were Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Church of the Ascension in East Glacier. Burial with military honors followed in the Dupuyer Cemetery. Whitted Funeral Chapel of Cut Bank was in charge of arrangements.

Butch was born at Browning May 28, 1940 to Chester and Theda (Welch) Irgens. Butch was raised in North Toole County and graduated from Sunburst High School. He then served with the U.S. Army in the 60's, returned to Cut Bank to work for Comanche Drilling, and later graduated from Eastern Washington University.

He served as the Police Chief and Head of Fisheries for the Suquamish Indian Tribe in Washington for a time. He later was a successful businessman for many years, before retiring in 1997 and moving back to Montana to be closer to family and friends.

He was a member of the Elks and Eagles Lodges and several conservation organizations. Butch loved to jump in his vehicle to explore the country and view wildlife. He also enjoyed fishing, boating, hunting, horse racing and playing cards.

Butch's sparkling personality will be missed by all.

Survivors include his daughters: Staci Renee Irgens of Renton, Wash.; Kimberley Kay Cowen of Tacoma, Wash.; and Stacy Griessimer of Great Falls; his son, Dennis James Irgens of Auburn, Wash.; sisters, Denise Copenhaver of Spokane and Shelle Bocek and Toni Irgens, both of East Glacier; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Theda (Mikki) Irgens; father Chester (Chet) Irgens; brothers, Michael, Dennis and Jimmy; and sister, Kelly.

Condolences may be posted at www.whittedfuneralchapel.com.



 
  Post Comment

08/19/09 11:32 PM #1    

Joe White (1958)

Butch, Gonna miss you, old friend. I always admired your "cool," and I was green with envy because you were the Hollywood, tall dark and handsome lady killer in our class. I remember your quick, infectious smile, sense of humor, and the easy confidence you projected. How did you always manage to find the classiest ride? I loved that '51 Lincoln. And the Low-Boy Studebaker (with the Packard engine) you brought to Anacortes in 1959 was rip-snortin' fast. I truly regret that we didn't have more time together in our "geezering years." 'Til we meet again, rest in peace dear friend.

  Post Comment