Ronald L Loftus

Ronald L Loftus

Ronald L. Loftus, 72, of Missoula, passed away of natural causes and went to drive on the big highway in the sky, Nov. 7, 2011. He was born Aug. 21, 1939, to Howard F. and Mabel R. Loftus.

He attended first through fifth grade at Gildford, Mont., and fifth through 12th grade at Havre, Mont,, where he graduated in 1957. He spent six years in the Air and Army National Guard.

In 1955, he began working as a house mover in the family business of Loftus & Son. In 1963, he moved to Missoula, where he continued to move houses for two more years, which included the initial move of the Greenough Mansion.

In 1963, he changed his career to driving logging truck, which he continued until 1968, It was then that he began driving truck commercially over the road until Sept. 1, 2001, when he retired.

After he retired, he would spend many hours tinkering in his small wood shop, where he made many items out of wood for family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Mabel Loftus; (wife), A. Louise Loftus; his brother, Sherman Loftus, and great-granddaughter, Khloe Peterson Formay.

Survivors include his wife, Hollie Werner Loftus of Missoula; daughters, Windy (Craig) Peterson of Missoula, Dena Voshell of Seattle, Wash., Ronda (Stephen) Helit of Missoula; brothers, Kermit (Loretta) Loftus of Havre, Shane (Lisa) Loftus of Bridger, Mont. ; and sister-in-law, Vi Loftus of Havre; eight grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held Nov. 12 at 1 p. m. at the community hall, 4713 Graham, with a potluck to follow.

Memorials may be sent to 4608 Graham, Missoula, MT 59808, or to the charity of your choice.