James W. Orcutt
June 17, 1938 — June 25, 2016
Our hearts are heavy, yet full of joy for the years we shared with our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, James Weston Orcutt. Jim died peacefully on Saturday, June 25, 2016, from complications of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Enzyme Deficiency .
Jim was born in Conrad, Montana on June 17, 1938, the first of two children born to Elbert H. (Tuffy) and Lucile Howard Orcutt. Early on in his life he developed a deep love for the prairie and his pioneer heritage.
Jim is survived by his wife, Martha, children, Mark (Maureen) Orcutt, Greg (Julie) Orcutt, Kathi (Kirby) Kauk, Ward (Julie) Orcutt, Richard Orcutt, step children, Joe Carleton, Richard (Kathy) Carleton , 15 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, a niece, a nephew and cousins . Jim is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Carol Orcutt King.
Beginning in the late 1950’s, Jim built a successful farming operation based on certified seed production. He established Northern Seed Service in the early 1970’s. Jim served as President of the Montana Seed Growers Association. Jim was involved in sheep production and served as a director of the Pondera Wool Pool and was a member of the Montana Wool Growers. Utilizing sheep, Jim demonstrated his land stewardship by initiating leafy spurge and weed control along the Marias River.
His family meant everything to him and he spent a great deal of his retirement spending time with them. His family loved him dearly and will miss the daily visits and unconditional love and compassion he shared.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. June 29 th at the First Presbyterian Church, the corner of 4 th Ave and Maryland St. A luncheon will follow the service.
Memorials may be sent to the charity of your choice.