John Price

In loving memory of John W. Price, 1935-2025.

John was born on August 26, 1935, in Three Forks, MT, to Hobart and Faye Price. John was joined by sisters, Sharon and Belva “Dee”. The family moved to Butte, MT, where he was raised by his mom and stepfather, William Inkret. John, or “Papa” as he was affectionately known to most, passed away peacefully at the home of son and daughter-in-law, Terry and Maureen Price, on Sept. 8, 2025. They lovingly welcomed Dad into their home, shortly after the passing of his wife, Ann. All of us were very blessed to have him so close by, and Dad was never alone.

As a young man, John worked in highway construction. He then enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp., proudly serving his country. He was stationed in California, Japan, and the Philippines. After his honorable discharge, he began a career with the Anaconda Company. This led to a move to Missoula, and a full career with Champion International, where John was a skilled draftsperson and project manager. He loved his time at Champion and his mill friends, many of whom he remained in contact with for years after retirement. He also served his community through the Lions Club and Bonner School Board.

John married Ann L. Bolton on January 10, 1957, in Walkerville, Butte, MT. He married into a huge family, filled with love, good times, and great people! Ann and John had two children, Terence John, born Dec. 28, 1959, and Michele Ann, born August 6, 1968. Both were raised with love and a very strong work ethic.

Dad was a huge supporter of sports. Forever chasing his kids or grandkids to a football, baseball, or softball field. John was so proud of his grandchildren, and relished all their accomplishments, whether it be academically or sports related. His favorite saying was “get your foot out of the bucket!” John’s family was extended by his children’s and grandchildren’s friends as well. His home was often a meeting place for all of us, and both Papa and Nana cherished these special times. Thank you to all who were part of this.

John is survived by Terry and Maureen Price, Michele and Robert Mitchell, grandchildren Megan (Chris) Moore, Trevor (Bre) Price, Brianna (Nick) Argento, and Hailey Mitchell. He was blessed with four great grandchildren: Kade, Kambrie, Kannon, and Asher, as well as a soon to be baby girl to Trevor and Bre. His great-grandchildren brought a special joy to his life. Also surviving are sister-in-law Darlene Bolton, brother-in-law Mickey (Vonnie) Bolton, and brother-in-law Tim (Judy) Bolton.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ann, his parents Hobart, Faye, and stepfather William, sisters Sharon (Emmett), and Belva Delores (Sam), Helen (Orr) Keto, Veronica (Bernie) Jacobs, Jack (Dorrie) Bolton, Gus Bolton, Tommy (Annette) Bolton, Neil (Diane) Bolton, Danny (Rene) Bolton, Trudy (Jack)Brown, and most recently, Charles Bolton. Dad’s beloved dog, Gus, preceded him in death as well.

John is survived by numerous nieces and nephews, all who had a special place in his heart, whom he loved very much. A special thank you to Larry and Lenora Jacobs, Cory and Marlene Atiyeh, Father Michael Poole, Roy Rogers, and LaMonica Lindbloom-Johnson, for their care and compassionate concern they had for Dad.

Special thanks to David J. Thatcher VA Clinic, Drs. Stritzke, Strom and Munding, their teams and Jeff Blanchard in Pharmacy, for the exceptional care they provided to Dad. Partners in Hospice were wonderful at providing care and support, not only to Dad, but to the family as well. Special thanks to Elilia and Becky for their outstanding commitment to care and compassion. All employees that cared for Dad were wonderful, and we are forever thankful.

Catholic funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 1st, at 11 a.m., at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Bonner, MT with a luncheon to follow. Father Poole will be our celebrant. A private interment will take place in Butte, MT on a date yet to be determined.

As much as we are saddened at the loss of our dad, we rejoice in the fact that he has been reunited with Mom and all our loving family and friends in heaven. Please forever watch over us, and until we meet again, “be careful, have a nice trip,” in Dad’s words.

Memorials can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.