Darrold E Ferguson, 83, of Missoula, departed his earthly home on October 31, 2022 at St. Patrick's Hospital due to complications from a massive stroke.
He was born August 20, 1939 in Ambrose, ND, to Edward Clay Ferguson and Blanche Wehrman Ferguson. Darrold was raised and educated in Westby, MT. Upon graduating from high school, he attended Eastern Montana College in Billings, MT. Deciding he wasn't cut out for teaching, Darrold attended Billings Business College attaining certification in accounting and office procedure. That is also where he met the girl who would become his wife of 59 years.
On November 27, 1963, Darrold married Dona J. Miller at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Billings, MT. They were blessed with three children. Daughter, Deanna "Dede", born in Billings, Douglas, born in Deer Lodge, and completed their family with the birth of Darin in Missoula.
Darrold loved to bowl and played softball as an adult. He passed on his love of sports to his children, promoting family rivalry and teasing. He coached little league baseball for over 20 years for Mount Jumbo and Westside. His motto was "do your best and have fun." Darrold was the greatest armchair coach.
He gave 50 years of loyalty to the Missoula Exchange Club, holding many offices. He was in charge of ushering at Grizzly football and basketball by the club as means to raise money to support their national platform - preventing child abuse.
Darrold worked for Missoula White Pine Sash for 27 years as a traffic and personnel manager. He completed his work career at Flanagan Motors.
The retirement years for Darrold and Dona were spent in daily care of their grandsons. From birth, after school and summers until they became teens, Grandpa hauled them everywhere. He also entertained them with his love of music. The boys would joke that Grandpa couldn't shower and shave without playing his polka music.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, lone Anderson, Elaine Koon, Marjorie Reed, Selma Sneva, Vavine (in infancy), Kathryn Adamy, and brothers, Howard, Aubrey and David Ferguson.
Darrold is survived by his wife, Dona. Daughter, Dede, sons, Douglas (Laurie) and Darin (Cheri). Grandsons, Tanner, Austin and Matthew. Sister, Carol Cappell (Dick) Brandon, FL, sister-in-law, Sharon Ferguson, Helena, MT, brother-in-law,
Dr. Fred Miller, Cary, NC. and numerous nieces and nephews scattered throughout the United States
Services will be held at Darrold's church home, First Lutheran Church, 2808 South Avenue West in Missoula, on Sunday, November 13, 2022 at 3:00pm. Reception to follow in the fellowship hall.