Gary Botchek

Gary Botchek passed away at home on May 2, 2025, with his loving wife by his side, following a courageous 12-year battle with cancer and the effects of treatment. 

Born in 1942 in Libby, Montana, to George and Ruth Botchek, Gary developed a lifelong love for the outdoors and valued the friendships of his youth. He graduated from Libby High School in 1960 and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering/Technology from Montana State University (Go Cats). 

Gary’s career reflected his dedication and work ethic. He held positions at St. Regis Paper Company, the City of Bozeman, the City of Missoula (as Construction Engineer and later Superintendent of Streets), American Asphalt, Professional Consultants, Inc., Sorenson & Company, Inc., and, most notably, Missoula County Public Schools, where he served for decades in Operations and Maintenance, ultimately as Director. He approached every challenge with a sense of fun and optimism. 

A proud member of the Montana National Guard and the 19th Special Forces, U.S. Army Green Beret, Gary was deeply committed to service. 

Gary married Nita Smith, and together they welcomed a son, Scott. Fifty-one years ago, he married Nancy Rademacher Stoverud in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. They were blessed with two daughters, Jaime and Laine, and raised their granddaughter, Jordan, as their own. 

Active in his community, Gary served on the University Homeowners Board, church council, and as a trustee on the Target Range School Board. He was an avid golfer, loved Montana’s great outdoors, and enjoyed coaching girls’ youth basketball. He enthusiastically supported his children’s sports and music activities. 

Gary built a cabin on Flathead Lake and took pride in building his own home. A true Montanan, he found joy in every outdoor pursuit and was passionate about all he loved. 

He is remembered by his many friends for the adventures and laughter they shared in Montana’s wild places. 

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, George and Ruth. He is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy; son Scott (Samantha) and their daughters, Bella and Lily; daughter Jaime and her children, Jordan and James; daughter Laine Loberg (Kyle) and their daughters, Zoey and Brooke; nephew and best friend Rick Burrell (Diane) and family; niece Connie Dwyer and daughter Deanne; nieces Susan Poulos and family, and Amy Rademacher. 

The family extends special thanks to dear friend Kathleen for her unwavering support and kindness. Gary was an animal lover, cherishing his horses Babe, Dusty, and Barkley; cats Buttons and Arrow; and dogs Ruff, Abby, Cinder, and Maggie. 

Despite being on a feeding tube for the past seven years, Gary faced every day with remarkable resilience and spirit. 

He will be remembered for his courage, warmth, and the love he shared with all who knew him. 

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.