Clinton Samuel 'Butch' Armstrong, 92

Clinton Samuel “Butch” Armstrong, 92, passed away on Oct. 20, 2017, a day after his 92nd birthday.

Butch was born to Clinton and Ivah Armstrong on Oct. 19, 1925, in Denver. Shortly thereafter, the family relocated to Orange County, California, near the Eddy Martin Airport (now known as John Wayne Airport). This is where Butch developed his passion for aviation. At a very young age he would sneak away to the airport and do odd jobs in exchange for flying lessons, piloting his first solo flight at age 16.

In 1943, during World War II, he joined the Navy as a parachute rigger and served on the USS San Francisco.

After his discharge, Butch jumped at any opportunity to fly, finding work as a crop duster and flying turkeys into Mexico. In 1952, he started flying commercially for Western Airlines (Delta Airlines), a career that spanned 32 and a half years.

It was shortly after his retirement that Butch met and married the love of his life, Barbara Clark. The two enjoyed 29 years together. Between Butch’s four sons and Barbara’s four daughters, they had 24 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

He was preceded in death by both of his parents, two sisters, and his son, Daniel.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; sons, Sam (Judith) of San Juan Capistrano, California, Steve of Kalispell, and Gary Armstrong of Salt Lake City. He is also survived by his stepdaughters, Jami Clark of Billings, Janna Weldele (Mitch) of Whitefish, Marri Lingle (Kent) of Kalispell, and Julie Webster (Loren) of Mesa, Arizona.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Friends are encouraged to visit the website, www.buffalohillfh.com, to leave notes of condolence for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.