Richard "Dick" Donovan Ecklund

Richard “Dick” Donovan Ecklund, 95, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, in Butte, Montana.

He was born on November 14, 1930, in Little Sauk, Minnesota, the oldest of nine children. He grew up on a dairy farm, where he learned the meaning and value of hard work. After high school, Richard was proud to serve his country during the Korean War. Following his military service, he made his way to Montana, where he went to work as an ironworker at Talcott Tank and Steel in Great Falls.

He met and married Myrna Brenna in 1956. They have three living children, Steve, Dyan, and Roberta “Bobbi.” He and Myrna parted ways after devoting much of their lives to raising their children. Richard married Alma Lehman in 1987. They spent many years together and Alma's children became part of the family, Jerry Lehman of Great Falls, Kathy Stokes (deceased), as well as the grandchildren. He and Alma were very involved in the life of their granddaughter, Jessilyn Ecklund of Missoula. Alma passed away in 2016, and Richard missed her greatly.

He was very involved with Little League Baseball, the YMCA Men's Club and a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Great Falls for many years.

Richard worked 39+ years for Talcott Tank and Steel, before retiring at age 62. He was known as a dependable and hardworking man who took pride in his work ethic and dedication to his family. He told his children (and others) to "be the last to quit and the first to buy the beer." Richard will be remembered for thinking of others before himself, belief in his community, country and church, as well as his frugality. He had a great love of the outdoors and instilled in his family a love of camping, fishing, and stewardship of the land. Nobody picked up more aluminum cans during his morning walks in Great Falls than Richard did!

He is survived by his children, Steve, Dyan, and Bobbi; stepson, Jerry Lehman; a number of grandchildren; and sisters, Barbara (Swenson) and Jeannette (Fallon); and brother, Charles.

If desired, contributions to the YMCA of your choice, in his name, would be greatly appreciated.

A graveside service and reception will be held later this year.