John E. Alton, 88

Kalispell lost one of its lifelong residents May 23, 2017. John E. Alton “joined his wife, Donna, in heaven” where we are all sure his grand entrance was entertaining and flamboyant. He loved to joke and make people smile.

John owned and operated the first Conoco station in Kalispell on Main Street in the early 1950s, worked at the Columbia Falls Aluminum plant for 30 years as a mechanic, and served as a trustee for District No. 2 for Flathead Electric Co-op. But, John’s true love was farming the family farm in Creston with all its beauty and scenic views. There was not a piece of farm machinery that John could not put a Band-Aid on and make useable for yet another crop. If you had a car problem you took it to John and he worked his magic. John would help you even if he didn’t know you. We know there is a tool belt waiting for him in heaven.

Free time was spent fishing on the reservoir and telling many a fish tale about it. He loved horseshoes, cheating at cards, hunting in “The Bob” and Great Bear wilderness areas and a 10-cent cup of coffee at Sykes’ where, being a staunch Republican, he enjoyed engaging Democrats in political banter.

John was preceded in death by his wife Donna of 62 years, parents Fred and Marie, and too many lifetime friends to name here, but he cherished them all.

He is survived by his son Donald Alton and daughter Marlene Horsfall (Allen); granddaughters, Crystal Allison (Andy) and Farrah Perry; grandsons, Tom Alton and Jack Alton (Kirsten); great-grandchildren, Shea Allison, Jack Jr. Alton, Emalee Alton and Austin Alton; sisters, Margie Miciewicz and Joyce White (Jerry); niece Diane Brooks, and grand-niece Meredith Brooks; and many other friends and extended family.

There will be an urnside service 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 31, at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery, with a memorial service to follow urnside service at 11 a.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Kalispell.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.