Obituary: Lloyd Wesley Kaercher

Lloyd Wesley Kaercher passed away Friday, Nov. 25, 2016, at the age of 94.

He was born on the family farm near Sage, Montana, on July 15, 1922, the youngest of Norman and Eunice Annette (Angus) Kaercher's five sons.

Lloyd graduated Rudyard High School and after graduation he spent 22 months in the U.S. Army Air Corps, stationed in Adak, Alaska. He was home on leave when he met his best friend in life, Audrey Langel. They were married Oct. 25, 1947, at the Van Orsdel United Methodist Church in Havre, a loving union that lasted 68 years until Audrey's death, July 17, 2016.

Lloyd was an inventive man who worked hard at being the best farmer he could be. He was active in the farming community, and served on a number of boards including Farmer's Union, and served eight years as a national representative on the CENEX Board of Directors. Lloyd never lost his zest for life, his positive outlook, or his love of a good story. He was happiest surrounded by family and friends, once stating he had everything he ever needed within 100 miles of home. For those who knew him, it was one of life's greatest joys to see Lloyd enjoy a good joke and hear his hearty laugh. He believed in working hard and playing hard, and provided his children and later his grandchildren with homemade monkey bars, merry-go-round, ice skating rink and the legendary go-cart.

Lloyd was preceded in death by his best friend and wife, Audrey; his daughter, Joyce Slothower of Banden, Oregon; his parents; and brothers, Lorn and Eugene.

Lloyd is survived by his children, Diane Kaercher of Mill Valley, California, Susan Kaercher (Larry Pike) of Salt Lake City, Utah, Les (Terri) Kaercher of Havre, Joan (Eric) Hendricks of Billings and Doug (Darla) Kaercher of Havre. He is also survived by son-in-law Bear Slothower, 11 grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the Boys & Girls Club of the Hi-Line and the Van Orsdel United Methodist Church, or to the charity of one's choice. The family extends their gratitude to the staff of Care & Comfort Home for their exceptional and loving care.

Memorial services for Lloyd Kaercher will be held at Van Orsdel United Methodist Church on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016, at 3 p.m. Burial and reception to follow.

Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with services and arrangements.

Please visit Lloyd's online memorial page and leave a message of condolence for his family at http://www.hollandbonine.com.