Louis Whitsell

Dr. Frederick Louis Whitsell, a devoted husband and father, passed away peacefully in his home on April 10, 2026 in Missoula, MT at the age of 95 1/2. He was born in Emmett, Idaho to Frederick “Freddie” Pratt Whitsell and Garnett “Garnie” Westbrook Whitsell.

Lou graduated from Emmett High School where he lettered in basketball, was active in the Latin Club, played baritone in the marching and pep bands, sang in choir, and served as stage manager. He earned Eagle Scout honors at age 16, later joining the Order of the Arrow. His early years were filled with hard work and ingenuity—building a ¾ hp gas car as a teenager, working as a janitor, soda jerk, delivery man, and fruit packer.

He earned a BS in Business from the University of Idaho in 1952, where he sang with the Vandaleers choir and joined SAE fraternity. Following graduation, Lou served his country as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1954; he was stationed in Sioux City, Iowa, and later at Milner Ridge near Winnipeg, Canada with the 87th Fighter Squadron and 916th AC&W Aircraft Warning Squadron. His responsibilities included building housing for service families and purchasing alcohol for the officers club. He and Phyllis even competed on the Air Force base curling team during those frigid winters.

On June 12, 1952, Lou married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Phyllis Helen Vickery. Their honeymoon at Shore Lodge on Lake McCall and Warm Lake Lodge began a lifetime of adventure and devotion. Their first home as husband and wife was in a canvas tent at Warm Lake where Lou led the rifle range and Phyllis assisted with cooking and bookkeeping for a Boy Scout Camp. Another interesting summer job they shared later was manning a forest service lookout at Meadow Creek in Idaho.

After his military service, Lou pursued a degree in dentistry, graduating from the University of Minnesota Dental School in 1959. He practiced in Missoula, Montana until his retirement in 1991. His professional leadership included serving as President of the Missoula County Dental Society. He also built a business acquiring numerous rental properties. 

Lou introduced his young family to backpacking and downhill skiing; these activities produced many happy memories and cultivated close, lasting friendships. The family also enjoyed summers at their Lindbergh Lake cabin. He was always up for a game of badminton, ping pong, swing golf, water sports, Mexican Train, cards, or stomp on. He truly enjoyed this special time with family.

Lou was also an avid conversationalist, always interested in others and able to extend a goodbye indefinitely. Next to spending time with family and friends, he was happiest when he was working on a project– building, dirt work, repairs, maintenance, and giving advice were his favorite hobbies.  

He is survived by: his beautiful and loving wife of nearly 74 years, Phyllis; his daughters Stacy Ridenour (Rich), Sally Davis (Taylor), and Sidney Whitsell (Dan Resler); his spitting-image grandsons Brandon Ridenour (Natsumi), Ross Ridenour (Mette), and Trevor Davis (Lara); his great-granddaughters Jun Ridenour (Brandon) and Rosalind Ridenour (Ross); his great nephew Harry Kudrna, and many dear friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Glyde Jean Whitsell White, his niece JoDee White Rhoton, and many dear friends.

A celebration of life will be held at The First United Methodist Church, 300 E. Main St, Missoula, MT 59802 on April 25 at 12:00pm, with a light lunch to follow. Flowers may be sent to the FUMC or gifts in honor of Lou may be sent to the church at P.O. Box 7646 or to a charity of your choice. A zoom link will be available soon. 

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

Summary of Timothy 4:5-8