James Henry 'Hank' Handford, 80

James Henry “Hank” Handford, 80, passed away Oct. 4, 2017.

Jim was born April 24, 1937, in Ronan to Henry and Ruth Handford and moved to Kalispell with his family when he was 4 years old. He attended school at Cornelius Hedges, Central School, and graduated from Flathead County High School in 1955. He attended one semester at the University of Montana in Missoula.

In high school Jim was active in sports, making the varsity basketball team as a sophomore. He excelled in track and played football for the Braves, participating in the State Championship game in 1954.

He worked in local lumber mills, and in 1959 he met and married Mary Ellen Frost, formerly of Eureka. To this union five children were born, three of whom preceded him in death, James Brett in 1960, Orrin Henry in 1966, and Lisa Lynn in 1982.

He is survived by sons, Brad and wife Kim, and Hank and wife Christa; three grandchildren, Ashley, Alanna and Brett Handford; and one step-granddaughter, Mallory Slaten. Jim is also survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary.

Parents and siblings, Ruth, Ralph, and Beryl all preceded him in death.

Jim was always a truck driver. He worked for Coca-Cola, B&B (later Fun Beverage), McElroy and Wilken, and LHC, Inc., retiring in 2000. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, watching kids and grandkids participate in sports, attending band concerts, and most of all, family. He enjoyed working in his backyard, planting his garden, and did extensive remodeling of the family home.

Jim was quick of wit, had a terrific sense of humor, and always enjoyed a good joke. He kept in touch with old buddies from childhood and school days, and many members of his extended family. He was loved by many, and will be missed.

Cremation and private burial have taken place, with Buffalo Hill Funeral Home attending the family.

A celebration of life will be held beginning at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, at the Kalispell Elks Club.

To send a note of condolence to the family, please visit www.buffalohillfh.com.