Obituary - Wesley Wilford Berlinger

After a long battle with cancer, Wesley Wilford Berlinger went to his eternal home July 15th, surrounded by his wife and son in their home.

Wes was born in Havre, MT, to Wilford and Eileen (O'Malley) Berlinger April 14,1960. He graduated from Big Sandy High School in 1978.

Later, he followed in his father's footsteps and was a farmer and rancher through and through. Spring was always a special time for him as the cows would come back. Wes especially enjoyed helping his friends brand calves.

He loved riding dirt bikes, fishing and trapping. He often shared these moments with his son, stepchildren and grandchildren. Spending time with his family and friends or catching up on the phone was important to Wes and he always managed to keep in close contact. On Sundays, his son Corey would come out to the farm to watch football with his dad. Wes treasured these days with Corey. Getting Wes away from his passion of farming and ranching was not easy, but he and Corey made fond memories of their Glacier National Park and Black Hills vacations.  

In June of 1989, he married Marj Sheehy. Through this union their son, Corey, was born. They were later divorced. 

In November of 2007, he and Rita Schultz exchanged vows and were married. They were truly committed to one another and made each other very happy. They brought their families together to create a family of six, graduated two boys from high school and soon became empty nesters.

When Wes was diagnosed with cancer, he chose treating this awful disease was not the right decision for him. Although it was hard, Rita lovingly accepted and supported his wishes and stood beside him until his last day.

When Wes' good friends and family found out Wes always wanted to visit Hawaii they rallied the community and gave him and Rita a trip of a lifetime. This was a very treasured time he and Rita shared. They created many memories together and cannot thank the community of Big Sandy enough for this generous gift, but also for the tremendous support and help during the last five years.

Wes' remaining days were spent on his farm. He is preceded in death by his parents, uncles, aunts, cousins and his protector dog Tuff. Wes is survived by his loving wife of 12 years, Rita, and his son, Corey, both of Big Sandy; five stepchildren and six grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters Sharon (John) Field of Big Sandy and Patti (Bill) Richardson of Pendroy, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services will be held Saturday, July 25, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Margaret Mary Catholic church in Big Sandy. Luncheon will immediately follow the service at the Ophus Dome. A cremation has taken place and burial will take place privately at a later time

Wilderness Funeral Home and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.