Obituary - George Gaylord Rice

George Gaylord Rice, age 87, passed peacefully, surrounded by loving family March 25, 2020, at Big Sandy Medical Center of natural causes.

A celebration of life will be held in Big Sandy Friday, June 12, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church.

Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

George was born June 29, 1932 in Big Sandy, Montana.  George proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. That included a tour of duty during the Korean War conflict.  

Thereafter, he returned to the Big Sandy community and worked for many years as a mechanic, ranch foreman, grain elevator associate and school bus driver.  In the '90s, George and Helen purchased a local farm.  George continued to raise cattle and wheat crops until his death.  

George selflessly served his local community for over 60 years including first local EMT, hunter's safety educator, stock inspector and member of the American Legion and volunteer fire department.  When he was not serving others, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping with his family.

George was preceded in death by parents, Walter and Carrie; sisters, Florence Culhane, Anna Whetham, Alfreda Patera, Stella Lamb, and Betty Cossairt; brothers, Fred, Alfred and Howard.

He is survived by his wife, Helen Schepp Rice; son, Gaylen; daughters, Joy (John) Pogones, Georgia Kay (Bob) Tyler, and Brenda (Tom) Kirchhamer; nine grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.