James W. Verlanic

Jim Verlanic passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. 

Jim was born April 8, 1956 in Anaconda, Montana and was the 4th child of Orville and Betty Verlanic.

Jim graduated from Hellgate High School in Missoula. He then worked on the railroad and at Buttrey foods. He was a driver for Sweetheart Bread company in the Billings area, and delivered bread in south-central Montana and northern Wyoming where he met the love of his life, Barb. He also worked for Walmart and retired in 2018.

Jim always had a good joke to tell and loved to talk with people, especially about sports. He was easygoing, had a great wit and a fun sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Betty and Orville Verlanic, and his sister Joanne Verlanic-Scherger, as well his in-laws, Edward and Maxine Scherf. 

He is survived by his wife Barb Verlanic, of Lolo, his siblings Butch (Lynn) of Thompson Falls, Mary (Mike) Hamlin of Missoula, Gail Verlanic (Dave Severson), Paul Verlanic, and Mark Verlanic (Beth) of Laurel. Nieces and nephews, Adrienne, Mike (Arwyn), Cassie (Addie), Markie, Kelsie (Boe), Jenna, Brooklyn, Jon (Taijah), Wilder, and Nick (Hannah). 

He is also survived by Barb’s family, Terri and Ken Beard of Cohoctah, Michigan, Edward Scherf of Alpena, Michigan, Mike and Lori Scherf of Lolo, as well as many nieces and nephews, including Tifani (Vinny) and Ben Engavo.

Friends and relatives are welcome to attend a graveside service on October 4, 2025 at St Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, 641 Turner St. in Missoula at 3 pm.