Cody Lee Spence

              Cody Lee Spence, 67, of Noxon, passed away on Friday, July 14, 2023, at his home, of natural causes. 

              He was born on August 2, 1955, in Polson, MT, to Keith and Della Spence. As a young boy he lived in multiple towns across Montana while his father Keith followed work. In 1961 the Spence family settled down in Arlee, MT. It was there during his elementary and middle school years that he discovered his love for the great outdoors, animals, and athletics. If you didn’t find him shooting hoops or playing football with friends, he was more than likely fishing or hunting. During high school Cody excelled at both football and basketball, earning numerous awards in each, as well as All-American honors in football. Cody graduated from Arlee High School in 1974 and was awarded a football scholarship to play at the University of Montana – Western.

              After a short time in college, Cody decided to enter the workforce where he spent his time chasing drilling rigs through multiple states across the U.S. With his very strong work ethic Cody advanced to the position of driller in a short amount of time. Even though the oilfield was a demanding job, he still found plenty of time for fun, whether it be hunting and fishing or teaching his dog some crazy trick. In 1989 he left the oilfield and settled in Lincoln, MT where he took up work logging and guiding hunters for various outfitters in the Scapegoat Wilderness. In 2006 he met his soon to be partner in time, Sheryl, at a basketball game believe it or not. From then on you would see them at games together. In 2020 Cody and Sheryl moved to Noxon, MT where they enjoyed their animals and gardening. He loved any chance to show people or talk about their new place. They loved it when anyone came to visit, especially kids and grandkids, whether it be his own or Sheryl’s kids and grandkids—he was still the biggest kid in the room.

              Cody was a proud father and grandfather. He loved to watch his sons and grandchildren participate in all their activities, especially sports. There was never a distance too far or road condition too poor that would keep him from being there to cheer them on. Cody loved the great outdoors and all it had to offer. He was an avid outdoorsman that loved to ride and pack horses and mules into the backcountry in pursuit of adventure. Some of his most cherished memories were with his sons on backcountry adventures. Cody also loved any chance to get together with friends and family to reminisce and make new memories. He would talk and tell stories for hours if you let him! Cody lived a full life. He worked hard but played harder. He will be missed greatly. 

He is survived by his partner Sheryl Kain; sons Reilly (Shannon) Spence, Billings, MT, Ryan (Codie) Spence, Helena, MT, Cody (Kathleen) Tanner Arlee, MT, Craig Tanner Arlee, MT; sisters Sharon Dorval, Belfield, ND, Kathy (John) Hebert, Minot, ND; and nine grandchildren.