http://www.haskellfuneralhome.com/

Haskell Funeral Home, 605 E Main Street, Lovell, WY (2026)

10/30/2026

Ruby Lee Beall, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away at her home in Frannie Wyoming on October 26, 2026.

Ruby was born on May 22, 1936, to Leo and Ruby Lynn. She spent her happy childhood in Lovell alongside her sisters, Loretta and Shirley, and her brother, Roy. During her junior year of high school, her family moved to Columbus Montana, where she graduated in 1954. It was during these formative years that she met the love of her life, Keith Beall. After catching her eye while making ice cream at a family outing in Frannie, he quickly charmed her. The high school sweethearts were married in 1954, beginning a beautiful lifetime partnership that blessed them with three children: Carol, Blaine, and Sid.

Ruby was a woman of incredible strength, determination, and diverse talents. She learned the art of baking and cake decorating at her family's bakery in Columbus, skills that would pave the way for a fulfilling 30-year career as a cafeteria cook for Big Horn County School District 1. Known affectionately for her "famous" cinnamon rolls. Ruby Lee was a woman of many talents and worked various unique jobs throughout her life, including picking peas for the Cannery Factory in Cowley, driving beet trucks during harvest, and serving as a construction flagger.

Above all, Ruby was a devoted mother and community member. She was her children's biggest champion, enthusiastically supporting them in 4-H, cheerleading, and sports—where she was known to run the sidelines of football and basketball games right alongside them. A passionate gardener and ceramic artist, Ruby's home was always bursting with seasonal decor and beautiful flowers.

She is survived by her loving her three children and their spouses Carol (Micheal) McMillin, Blaine (Kay) Beall, and Sid (Rox Ann) Beall; her sister, Loretta Bentz; six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; and a community that will deeply miss her bright, energetic spirit.

Services
Visitation ~ Monday, November 2, 2026
9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Cowley LDS Church

Funeral Service ~ Monday, November 2, 2026
10:00 AM
Cowley LDS Church

Interment following funeral service
Monday ~ November 2, 2026
Deaver-Frannie Cemetery

10/30/2026

Jane Schneider

Jane D. Schneider, 77, of Lovell, Wyoming, passed away surrounded by family at her home on October 28, 2026. Born and raised in Lovell, Jane lived a life filled with adventure, creativity, and, above all, love for her family.

Jane was the daughter of Bill and Loa Dillon and the fourth of eight children. Growing up, she was a daddy’s girl, outgoing, and always caring for her younger siblings. She helped with cooking and cleaning, learning early the importance of caring for those around her. Some of her fondest childhood memories were made in the family’s brick house on Nevada Avenue, a home she remembered with such affection that she wished her family had never moved away.

Jane’s love story with John Schneider began in a way that reflected her outgoing nature. While working at the Rose Bowl, Jane noticed John’s vehicle parked and commented how she wished she could get a ride home with him. John gave her that ride, and before long, Jane had asked him to the high school twirp dance. After John returned from basic training, he asked Jane to marry him. The two eloped to St. Anthony, Idaho, and were married on September 4, 1965, beginning a life together filled with family, hard work, and adventure.

Jane was a wonderful wife and a loving, protective mother to her three children, Jamie Hafner, Johnny Schneider, and Jason Schneider. She showed her love in countless ways, including staying up all night sewing doll clothes for Jamie, attending every sporting event for all her kids, and cooking excellent meals for them. She worked many hours painting for D&S Construction alongside John in their construction business, helping build their life together. Family trips to Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, became treasured memories, as did the many journeys Jane and John took together in their RV to San Diego and throughout the Southwest.

Jane was a woman of many talents and remarkable determination. In the early 1990s, she woke up one morning and announced, “I'm going to college.” She followed through on that declaration, graduating with high honors from Northwest College in Powell, WY. She was an exceptionally talented seamstress, making John a three-piece suit from scratch. Her meticulous crocheting, cross-stitching, and embroidery reflected the care and patience she brought to everything she created.

One of Jane’s greatest passions was rock hunting and camping in the Bighorn Mountains. She loved the outdoors. She treasured her collection of arrowheads and spent many happy hours exploring the places she loved. She was also a tough and dedicated softball player who played for many years, carrying that same determination and competitive spirit into the game.

Her family continued to be her greatest joy as the years went by. Jane adored her seven grandchildren: Jamela Dilts, Jared Hafner, Jordan Hafner, Cheyanne Dickey, Jeremy Schneider, Dillon Schneider, and Ally Hartman. She also cherished her great grandchildren, Odin Dilts, Emmy Dilts and Brielle Hafner. To them, she was lovingly known as Nana Jane, a name that will forever be associated with her affection, warmth, and good heart.

She is survived by her husband, John Schneider, daughter, Jamie (Dennis) Hafner of Spearfish, SD, son, Johnny (Kristi) Schneider of Lovell, WY, son, Jason Schneider, Spearfish, SD, grandchildren, Jamela (Austin) Dilts, Rochester, MN, Jared Hafner (Kaitlin), Spearfish, SD, Jordan Hafner, Spearfish, SD, Cheyanne Dickey, Powell, WY, Jeremy Schneider, Billings, MT, Dillon Schneider, (Delany Creed), Spearfish, SD, Ally (Adam) Hartman, Spearfish, SD and great grandchildren, Odin and Emmy Dilts, Rochester, MN, and Brielle Hafner in Spearfish, SD. Along with her siblings, Peg Snell, Willard, UT, Pam Currie, Tega Cay, SC, Sue (Shane) McKinny, Lovell, WY, Scott (Sharon) Dillon, Spokane, WA, and Tom Dillon, Lovell, WY. She was preceded in death by her parents, and sisters, Billie Jean Dillon and Toni Bassett.

Jane was so appreciative of all the staff and their genuine kindness shown at the North Big Horn Hospital. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she created, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave will remain with her family forever.

Visitation
Monday, November 2, 2026
1:00-2:00 PM
Lovell Stake Center

Funeral Service
Monday, November 2, 2026
2:00 PM
Lovell Stake Center

Interment in Lovell Cemetery

10/27/2026

Gottlieb Miller "Butch" Fink was born to John and Dorothea Fink on February 3, 1944, in Byron, WY. He passed away suddenly on October 25, 2026, in Lovell, WY. Butch was the youngest son of nine children. He attended school in Byron and graduated as a Byron Eagle in 1962. It was always a family legacy that in one single year, all nine children attended the same school system.

Butch met Kandida Boatright at a bowling alley in Lovell. They were married on August 28, 1976 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Lovell, WY. A year later, their only child, Holly was born.

Butch worked for the Town of Lovell, Baroid, Western Sugar and then started a "two week" job at Wyo- Ben. (He retired from it 18 years later.) During the spring and summer, he would power-rake and mow lawns. Butch chose to honor his country by serving in the Wyoming Army National Guard for 23 years as Quartermaster.

After Kandida tragically died in 2002, Butch kept busy by rototilling gardens with his tractor, throwing horseshoes in the spring and summer, and bowling in the fall and winter. He never met a stranger, and stayed very active attending numerous school sports and always having quarters for the young kids. Later in life, he volunteered to deliver meals for the local senior center and served on the color guard.

In the fall of 2025, due to his declining health, he became a resident of New Horizons Care Center. He lived there until the time of his death. He enjoyed attending Lutheran Bible study, frequenting the gift shop and watching the birds. He rejoined the Lutheran Church in July of 2026.

Butch was preceded in death by his parents, John and Dorothea, his wife Kandida, his brothers Helmuth and Paul and sisters Louise, Lillian, and Linda in addition to many other family members. He is survived by his daughter Holly of Powell, WY; his grandson, Michael (Lanee) of Greeley, CO, his brothers Ed of Evansville, WY, and Albert of Denver, CO; his sister, Hermina of Rozet, WY, and numerous other family members and friends.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St John's Lutheran Church located at 520 Montana Ave in Lovell, WY. Internment of cremated remains will follow at the Lovell Cemetery.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Caldwell, Ken Ferbrache PA-C, Reverend Tyrell Bramwell, and the staff of North Big Horn Hospital and New Horizons Care Center for the compassionate care they showed him especially during this last year of his life.

10/26/2026

Debra Marlene Rathbun
Debra Marlene Rathbun was born on November 25, 1954, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, to Gerald Wayne and Marlene Lorraine (Hutchins) Popham. Deb passed away on October 23, 2026.
Deb grew up in Sundance, Wyoming, where she spent her time showing horses in 4-H, working at the local Tastee-Freez, and enjoying time with her cousins. After graduation, she completed cosmetology school. She spent a summer working as a flagger for a local construction company, where she met her future husband. Deb and Floyd were married in July 1976 and moved to Basin, Wyoming, where Deb opened her own business, Deb’s Beauty Salon. Through her work, she connected with people, built lasting relationships, and became a familiar and cherished part of the community.
Ready for a change of pace from owning her own business, Deb began working as a secretary at Basin High School, which later became Riverside High School. She also spent a short time at Greybull High School before joining the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office. There, she dedicated the next 30 years of her career to serving the people of Big Horn County as a dispatcher and administrative assistant. Deb took pride in her work and found joy in being there for others.
Her commitment to her community extended beyond her professional career. Deb served for many years on the Basin Town Council and the South Big Horn County Rural Health Board. She cared deeply about the community she called home and generously gave her time in service to its residents. Her years of involvement reflected her dedication to helping others and making a difference in the place where she lived and raised her family.
While Deb dedicated many years to her career and community, her family was always at the center of her heart. She dearly loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and treasured the time they spent together. Deb found joy in cooking and sharing meals with the people she loved, especially during family gatherings and the Christmas season. Christmas held a special place in her heart, bringing together the people who meant the most to her and creating memories her family will cherish for years to come. For Deb, some of life’s most precious moments were spent surrounded by family and friends, sharing love, laughter, delicious meals, and cherished traditions.
Deb is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Kandice and Chris Dooley; her grandchildren, Bree and TJ Lundberg, Cade Dooley, and Mackenzie Riney; and her great-grandchildren, Teagan Lundberg and Tate Lundberg. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Jill Popham; her sister and brother-in-law, Heidi and Scott Komes; and her nephew, Kody Komes.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Rathbun; her father, Gerald Wayne Popham; and her mother, Marlene Lorraine Popham.
Deb will be remembered for her dedication to serving others, the countless memories she created, and the deep love she shared with her family. Though she will be deeply missed, her love will live on in the hearts of her family.
In keeping with the family’s wishes, there will be no public memorial service. Her family will gather privately to spread her ashes and honor her memory.

10/22/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Galina Andreevna Brunko, beloved mother, and wife, who passed away on October 8, 2026, in Parrish, Florida, at the age of 39. This final rest concludes our battle with breast cancer. She fought this battle the same way she lived every moment of her life: indomitable, tenacious, curious, beautiful, and magnetic.
Galina Andreevna Brunko was born on December 21, 1986, in the City of Volzhsky, Volgograd Region, Russia, to her Father, Andrey Alexandrovich Galvansky, and her mother, Anna Viktorovna Vlasenko. Soon a younger sister, Natasha, completed the family unit. The sisterhood they shared was among Galina’s most prized possessions; a value accumulated over decades of consistent, unconditional, protective love for one another. They primarily spent their upbringing in the Volgograd Region, where economic hardship, political uncertainty, and the generational traumas of war were met with resilience, resourcefulness, playfulness, and close community ties.
In describing Galina her sister Natasha writes, “For as long as I can remember, Galya was restless, inquisitive, and remarkably quick-witted. Even as a child, she loved joining the conversations of the grandmothers sitting on the bench, discussing high prices, medications, and other decidedly adult topics right alongside them. She taught herself to read by the age of four. At school, Galya picked things up instantly. Teachers adored her and often overlooked her antics because of her sharp mind and amazing abilities.”
When Galina was 14 years old her father died. In this struggle, her mother loved her with a widow’s might. Galina spoke often of the deep gratitude she had for her mother, and the admiration she had for her resilience, intelligence, work ethic, and people skills. Galina had the opportunity to share her talented mind and playful spirit with many caregivers, each giving a new opportunity for her to test and explore her reality and theirs. It was in these earliest of moments that Galina began thinking about her future babies. Every thought, feeling, belief, and goal was heavily flavored with thoughts for her children, and the sacred role she would play as mother. This passionate desire would fill her with purpose and was given top priority in every passing stage of life. She passed through these stages with ever increasing focus on her future children, while maintaining what onlookers could only describe as an irresistible charm and a relative ease of life. She was eager to attend University and progressed quickly towards her mother’s shared goal of a degree.
As soon as she was able, at the age of 18, Galina was baptized by Jeffrey Lockhart and became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. This marked the start of a rigorous religious pursuit that provided deep healing and personal insight. It was also the beginning of her relationship with the Lockharts. At the age of 19 the Lockharts welcomed Galina into their home in California, USA. Over the next 21 years Bradford and Lisa Lockhart would provide and love for Galina as their own. With a gratitude beyond expression, she added Jennie (Daniel) Pittman, Jeffrey (Ariel) Lockhart, Bradford "Scott" (Callie) Lockhart, Curtis (Megan) Lockhart, Patrick Lockhart, Julianne (Michael) Oberg, and Melanie (Andrew) Finlinson to her list of siblings. Galina was blessed with many additional aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents, and given the affectionate nickname Andy. The long walks and foot massages that would later carry her through pregnancies and our battle with cancer were comforting echoes of dad’s consistent efforts to show Andy just how genuinely loved, cherished, and protected she was in their family. The impact of this is profound, and a perfect reminder, that love conquers all. Galina is proceeded in death, and once again enters the loving presence of her mom, Lisa Lockhart.
With the added support of the Lockharts, Galina immediately restarted her pursuits of higher education in her new country and language. She joyously excelled at both the language and education, graduating from Brigham Young University with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Information Systems on August 9, 2012, at the age of 25. She at once began her intended career that same year with Ernst and Young of Irvine, California. The three years spent working there, while continuing to live with the Lockhart’s, allowed Galina the opportunity to pay off her student loans, and buy her first vehicle, brand new and to her exact specifications. These qualities of expecting the absolute best from life, working tirelessly to earn it, never compromising on her goals, and being quick to acknowledge those that made it possible have been constants in her life.
In 2015 Galina returned to BYU in pursuit of her master's degree. During this time, she met her husband, Jacob. On October 22, 2015, for their 5th date, they were married at the Fourth District Courthouse of Utah County in Provo, UT; one week after meeting, and 200 text messages after, “Hi, this is Jake from Tinder :)” Galina’s decision was deeply inspired by the opportunity to witness the relationship Jacob held with his daughter, Addison Brunko. In that beautiful connection Galina saw first the young girl who needed a mother, and then the father she would honor with the title of husband. Jacob was stupefied to discover the most incredible soul he had ever encountered, cloaked by the most physically beautiful woman he had ever seen. He eagerly turned their playful conversation of marriage into reality before discovering there was a father in Brad Lockhart who deserved the request for permission, or even that her maiden name started with a V.
On October 1, 2016, Galina’s lifelong dream to bring life into the world came to fruition, with the birth of her daughter Avelynn Mae Brunko. Avelynn was soon followed by Liam Gary George Brunko on May 10, 2018, and Jaxon Brooks Brunko on September 6, 2021. On August 4, 2018, Jacob and Galina were joined by family and friends at the Provo City Center Temple where they were sealed as a family for time and all eternity. With her babies secured Galina happily welcomed every hour of opportunity to fulfill her goals to meet their every need. This included advancing her career while simultaneously growing her family. She enjoyed making many more friends while working at Sallie Mae (April 2016 - August 2018), Nu Skin (January 2018 – July 2019), The Cadence Group (July 2019 – January 2022), and Linford and Company (January 2022 – September 2022). Every hour worked was with the financial security of her children in mind, many of those while actively breast feeding (sometimes two at a time). The long days in front of the computer did nothing to take away from her enthusiasm and energy for her kids. This included giving them the opportunity to snuggle her as long as they liked throughout the night, as late into life as our King size bed could stand. Every beautiful home that she obtained for them could have been reduced to the one-bedroom apartment of her childhood, and the sleeping pile would be no different. While meeting all their maternal needs perfectly she provided for them lavishly.
On October 31, 2022, while still breast feeding our youngest, Galina was diagnosed with Her 2 positive Breast Cancer, Stage 4 with metastasis in her lymph nodes, liver, and bones. Consistent with every moment in life, her immediate thoughts were for her children. Among every other possible consideration, we decided that a private approach would best protect the kids from what lay ahead. This decision has removed from so many of you the opportunity to support the person and people you love so much, and the adequate time you needed to say goodbye. This unwanted side effect was a part of the known consequences of our decision, and we thank you for offering these involuntary sacrifices our decision imposed on you. Know that we consider those sacrifices sacred as we offer them up to our children and to God as evidence of our absolute love and appreciation for both.
Thank you to all those who were able to join us in the Celebration of Life held at Groover Funeral Home at Mansion Memorial Park, in Ellenton, FL on October 16, 2026.
Galina’s Memorial Service will be held on October 24th at 10 AM at the L.D.S. Chapel of Burlington, WY (114 Cedar Ave). The Burial will take place immediately following at the Burlington Cemetery. The service can be enjoyed virtually with the following link:
https://youtube.com/live/CuzUZvYlpu4?feature=share
There will also be a Celebration of Life held in Galina’s honor in the Salt Lake City, UT area, date to be determined, sometime in 2026.

10/22/2026

Colet Christensen Hart

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Colet Christensen Hart, who left this world peacefully on October 19, 2026, surrounded by her beloved family at Campbell County Health in Gillette, Wyoming. Born on March 27, 1962, in Salina, Utah. Colet lived a life filled with love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends.
Colet was the cherished daughter of Lin and Lamar Christensen, who have both preceded her in death. She was also preceded by her beloved husband, Hal D. Hart, with whom she shared many wonderful years of marriage. Their union was a testament to enduring love and mutual respect, values that Colet carried throughout her life.
A devoted mother, Colet is survived by her two sons, James (wife Megan) and Phillip Diekemper, who brought immense pride and joy into her life. She was blessed with five grandchildren, Jayden, Mason, Maci, Oakliegh, and Journey Diekemper, each of whom she adored and cherished deeply. Colet's legacy of love and kindness will continue to live on in their hearts and in the memories they shared.
Colet's family extended beyond her immediate relatives. She is survived by her sisters, Becky Ontiveroz and Cyndy Strayhorn, who were not only her siblings but also her closest friends. Their bond was an unbreakable testament to the strength of family ties, filled with cherished memories and shared laughter.
Those who knew Colet will remember her for her gentle spirit, generosity, and unwavering strength. She possessed an innate ability to comfort others with her warm presence and kind words. Her compassion and empathy touched the lives of many and left an indelible impact on all who were fortunate enough to know her.
A service to celebrate Colet's life will be held on October 31, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Haskell Funeral Home, located at 605 E. Main St., Lovell, Wyoming. Family and friends are invited to join in honoring her memory and sharing stories of the joy and love she brought into their lives.
Colet will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her family find comfort in the love and memories she leaves behind.

10/21/2026

IN LOVING MEMORY
Jeretta Maxine Wambeke
May 13, 1934 - October 16, 2026

Jeretta Maxine Wambeke, lovingly known to family and friends as Maxine, age 92, passed away peacefully at her home in Lovell, Wyoming, on October 16, 2026.
Maxine was born on May 13, 1934, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Vernon Adey and Jewell Cole Adey. She moved to Lovell with her family while in the fifth grade, and from that time forward, Lovell became her lifelong home. It was there that she built a beautiful life, raised her family, and created countless cherished memories.
Maxine graduated from Lovell High School in 1952, the same year she married the love of her life, George Wambeke. Together, they shared a life built on love, dedication, hard work, and family. During George's military deployment, Maxine worked at a local drugstore in Lovell for several years. She later joined George in working on their farm, where they built a life together through partnership, perseverance, and hard work. She continued working alongside George on the farm until his passing in 1986.
Maxine found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved the beauty of the mountains, playing cards with family and friends, bowling, and traveling with friends. Above all, family was the heart of her life. She treasured every moment spent with those she loved, and the memories made together became some of her greatest blessings.
Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, Vernon and Jewell Adey; her beloved husband, George Wambeke; her brothers, Lynn and Emmett Adey; her sister-in-law, Lois Adey; her son, Gary Wambeke; and her grandson, Jayden Lewis.
She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory, including her daughter, Georgette (Nick) Lewis; her grandchildren, Renae (Levi) Miller, Nichole (Jared) Buxman, Matt (Sarah) Lewis, Greg (Janell) Lewis, Jeff (Mya) Lewis, Chelby (Elliott) Trott, Cameron Swain, Alicia Coatney, Natalie (Chris) Swain, and Nathan Swain; 22 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Maxine's 92 years were filled with love, friendship, family, and a lifetime of memories. She will be remembered for her strength, her dedication to her family, the life she built with George, and the love she shared across generations. Her legacy lives on in the family she raised, the lives she touched, and the countless memories that will be treasured for years to come.
Though her family will miss her deeply, they find comfort in knowing that the love she gave so freely will remain in their hearts forever.

Funeral Services
Friday, October 23, 2026
Visitation at 9:00 a.m. - Funeral at 10:00 a.m.
Haskell Funeral Home, Lovell, Wyoming Burial will follow at Lovell Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Maxine's life, honor her memory, and share the stories and moments that made her so special.
She will be forever loved, lovingly remembered, and

10/15/2026

Funeral Services for Scott Petrich

We do not own the rights to any music

10/13/2026

If ever there was a song that described Scott Petrich, it was “Long Haired Country Boy” by The Charlie Daniels Band. Scott was a man who marched to the beat of his own drum, held firmly to his convictions, and made no apologies for being exactly who he was. He wasn’t interested in following the crowd or living by anyone else’s rules.
A true outdoorsman with an adventurous spirit, Scott loved the mountains, camping, fishing, four-wheeling, shooting, and backpacking. Over the years, he enjoyed camping and backpacking excursions, often venturing out alone and countless times alongside family and friends. Those fortunate enough to share these experiences with Scott were left with a lifetime of stories and cherished memories.
Scott was born on August 1, 1956, in Powell, Wyoming, to John D. Petrich and Paula Ann Petrich. He spent his childhood in Byron, Wyoming, growing up alongside his beloved younger sister, Connie. Born just 15 months apart, the two shared a special bond that remained throughout their lives. Their childhood was shaped by the loving presence of their grandparents, affectionately known as “Granny P” and “Grandpa Petrich,” who played an important role in raising them while their father, John, worked to provide for the family.
When John married Christy, she became another important part of Scott and Connie’s upbringing. Their family grew with the arrival of three younger brothers, D’Arcy, Burl, and Jaime. Scott and his brothers enjoyed plenty of fishing trips and mischief. Whether enjoying the Wyoming outdoors or getting into a little trouble, they made many fond memories.
Scott also shared an especially close friendship with his brother-in-law, Tim Shaw. The two were quite a pair, and whenever they got together, there was no shortage of laughter, plenty of shenanigans, and never a dull moment.
Scott graduated from Byron High School in 1974 and also attended the South Dakota School of Mines.
A gifted and animated storyteller, Scott had an entertaining way of bringing his tales to life. He was a man of many talents, and anything he set his mind to mastering, he did. From photography and knapping arrowheads to playing the guitar and operating heavy equipment, Scott had a remarkable ability to learn and excel at whatever interested him.
Always up for fun, Scott’s escapades included sledding down Highway 14A with his brothers and niece, an outing that undoubtedly required very little convincing. He even enjoyed catching rattlesnakes, at least until one bit him in 1976. That was the end of that!
Scott had an exceptional work ethic and took great pride in a job well done. He was a skilled heavy equipment operator, particularly when it came to operating a backhoe. In fact, an acquaintance of his brother-in-law, Tim, once described Scott as “the best backhoe hand he’d ever seen.” Throughout his working years, Scott worked for several companies, including Ray’s Dirt Service, where he spent many years, and Heart Mountain Irrigation. He later worked for GK Construction, where he remained until his retirement.
In the early 1980s, Scott suffered a heartbreaking loss when his fiancée, Barb Martinez, was tragically killed by a drunk driver in Denver. The two had been engaged to be married, and her untimely death left Scott heartbroken. She was truly the love of his life.
Through life’s joys and heartbreaks, Scott remained steadfast in his convictions. Strong-willed, fiercely independent, and unapologetically himself, he never felt the need to be anything other than exactly who he was. He leaves behind countless memories and a reminder to take the scenic route, enjoy the journey, and never pass up the chance for a good adventure.
As Charlie Daniels sang, “I ain’t askin’ nobody for nothin’.”
And if there was one thing Scott never needed, it was anyone’s permission to be himself.
Scott passed away on October 9, 2026, in Billings, Montana, at the age of 70.
Scott was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents and his mother, Paula Ann Lynn Dee.
Scott is survived by his father, John D. Petrich (Christy); sisters, Connie Lynn Shaw (Tim) and Jeanne Roberts (Shane); brothers, John D’Arcy Petrich Jr. (Tina), Monty John Petrich (Becky), Burl Arthur Petrich, and Jaime Loften Petrich (Stephanie); his aunt, Georgia Lynn; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Graveside services will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Byron Cemetery in Byron, Wyoming. Visitation will be held from Noon to 1:00 p.m. at Haskell Funeral Home in Lovell prior to the services.