Gordon "Russ" Russell Blanchet

Gordon “Russ” Blanchet, 95, passed away on October 28, 2026.

Russ was born on July 8, 1931, in Somers, Montana. He graduated from Flathead High School in Kalispell, Montana in May of 1950. Just a few months later, on August 12, 1950, he married the love of his life, Mary Lippens, in Kalispell.

As a young man, Russ worked on the construction of Hungry Horse Dam. He later took on a very different challenge when he and Mary took over her family farm in Dutton. Russ had no farming experience when he started. He learned with hands on, long days, and figuring things out as he went. He was successful at making a living, and it became so much more. The farm was a part of Russ and something he was deeply proud of. He loved the land, the work, and the satisfaction that came from a good crop after a season of hard work.

Even after Russ retired and moved to Great Falls, the farm never really left him. He loved touring the fields with John and Cody and liked to weigh in on what was happening in the fields. While celebrating his 95th birthday, his daughter, Stephanie asked him what he wished for on his birthday. His answer was simple: “Good crops.” At 95, after a lifetime of farming, his thoughts were still with the farm. It was Russ through and through.

Russ was a man of his generation. He could be difficult at times, and compliments did not always come easily to him. But beneath that tough exterior was a man who was deeply proud of each of his children, even if he did not always say it aloud.

In his later years, Russ shared stories and memories with Stephanie that she came to treasure. Through those conversations, she learned more about her dad, his life, and the pride he carried for his family. Stephanie insisted on taking pictures with every family gathering – whether Russ particularly wanted to pose or not. Those photographs and the stories he shared have now become precious reminders of time together.

Russ was the father of Bob Blanchet (Chris), Diane Beecher (Bruce), John Blanchet (Jeanne), and Stephanie Dunaway. He was grandfather to Heather Chatirand (Ken), Robert Blanchet Jr., Cathy Jo Beecher (Clint), Bruce Beecher Jr. (Lena), Dustin Blanchet (Leslie), Cody Blanchet (Kelby), Jeff Blanchet (Heather), Nick Trebesch, and Karlee Trebesch. His family continued to grow with the addition of 11 great-grandchildren. Russ is also survived by his sister, Pat McClarty and his two nieces, Donetta Antonovich and Danielle Fiest.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Nellie Blanchet; brother, Robert Blanchet; and his beloved wife, Mary, who passed away on May 16, 2001. After more than 25 years apart, Russ and Mary are together again.

In keeping with Russ's wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. His family will gather privately to remember him and celebrate his life.

Rest in peace, Dad. You worked hard and leave behind a family to be proud of. May the crops always be good.