Jack William Peters

Jack William Peters, 82, passed away July 16th, 2025, at Community Medical Center in Missoula, MT, from complications following surgery. He was surrounded by his adoring family. Jack was born on May 9, 1943, in Fromberg, MT, to Ethel and Chris Peters. He grew up on the family farm in Bridger Montana and graduated from Bridger High, Class of 1961. In January 1962, he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served for three years.

Following his discharge, Jack moved to North Carolina. While working various jobs, and with the help of the GI Bill, Jack graduated with a degree from Sand Hills Community College in Pinehurst, NC in 1968. Knowing he wanted to pursue a degree in Forestry he moved to Missoula to attend the University of Montana.  From 1968 to 1971 he spent his summers working as a back country ranger in Glacier National Park, graduating with his Forestry degree in 1971.  Jack went on to dedicate thirty years to the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, in wildland fire management.

In 1971 Jack met the love of his life and soulmate Sharen; they were married on July 29, 1972 and from that day forever joined at the hip.  He became an instant father to five children, then aged three to fourteen, and he loved and cherished each of them deeply for the remainder of his life. From then on, Jack’s interests revolved around home and family. His motto became “I came, I saw, I fixed it”. Whether finishing a basement, building a deck, helping a family member or friend through a transition, he was always there to help. 

In 1986, Jack and Sharen purchased a cabin on Lake Inez. With his love of building things, Jack added a large addition to the cabin, ensuring there would always be space to gather family and friends and make memories. In 1993 he and Sharen built their dream home in the Rattlesnake and in 2008 they began their annual trips to Kauai, embracing their shared love of adventure and togetherness. Jack loved nature, wildlife, gardening, and watching the deer and hummingbirds from his deck. He was a long-time member of Atonement Lutheran Church, and more recently, Immanuel Lutheran Church.  

Jack had an immense heart. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, love of storytelling, unwavering support for others.

Jack is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sharen; Daughters Patti Twohig (Steve Niday) and Cindy Peters (Stefan Farr); Son Jim Peters, and Son-in-law, Patrick Caufield. He was blessed with three grandchildren: Denis (Merisa), Lily (Thomas), and Emma; And the proud great-grandfather to Maya, Isabella, Zara, Tayvin, and Bruce. He is also survived by siblings; Cliff Peters, Klamath Falls, OR, Curt Peters (JoAnn), Bridger, MT, and Carol Peters (Lynn D’Amelio), Bainbridge Island, WA, brother-in-law, Tom Burgeson, St. Michael, MN, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a multitude of dear and longtime friends.  Jack was preceded in death by his sister Delores, his daughters Shauna and Julie, and his parents.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, July 31, at Immanuel Lutheran Church. A luncheon will follow in the church Fellowship Hall.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the Community Medical Center ICU nurses, doctors, and staff for their exceptional care and support given to Jack and his family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Family Promise of Missoula or Montana PBS.