MICHAEL J. PAYNE obituary

Michael J. Payne, 61, retired tool and die maker for Boeing, died Thursday, July 5, 2007, at his home in Zortman of a heart attack.

At Michael's request there will be no services. Michael was born Sept. 30, 1945, in Burbank, Calif., the son of Taswell and Susie (Huss) Payne. His father was employed in the aerospace industry, and Michael was raised and educated in California, Florida and other states. He graduated high school in California and attended college for tool and die making there. Michael was inducted in the Army in 1965. He was stationed at the USA Exhibit Unit (3700) Cameron Station, Alexandria, Va. As a machinist. He qualified as expert rifleman and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal. After his discharge in 1967, he went to work for Lockheed Aircraft Co., Rockwell Rocketdyne International and Boeing Aircraft Corporation as a tool and die maker, working in the Auburn, Wash., plant. He married Adele C. Steinweg on March 22, 1973. After their retirement in Washington State, they moved to Zortman. Michael was an avid hunter, lieftime member of the National Rifle Association, and qualified as a certified water operator with the State of Montana so he would be able to help with the water in Zortman. He worked hard on the Camp Creek Water Board. Michael joined the Zortman Volunteer Fire Department, which he enjoyed very much. His latest project was learning all about his New Holland tractor that he had recently purchased. Michael was an amateur astrologist and star gazer; he enjoyed staying up all night just to get a glance of the heavenly bodies. Michael was a good neighbor and a good friend who would help anyone in need. Michael is survived by his wife, Adele C. Payne of Zortman; several aunts and cousins. Memorials may be sent to the Zortman Volunteer Fire Department or the Planned Parenthood of Montana c/o Adele Payne, P.O. Box 105, Zortman, MT 59546. Adams Funeral Home and Crematory of Malta is in charge of arrangements