Ross Oertel Armstrong

Ross departed on his final fishing trip Oct. 6, 2020. He was born Nov.  21, 1923 to Tom and Margaret Armstrong in Kalispell. His parents managed the Depot for the Great Northern Railroad in Essex and Summit. Ross and his sister Shirley spent their early years in the shadows of Glacier Park.

He graduated from Flathead High School in 1942. He then went to work for the railroad, until enlisting in the Army in 1943. Upon his discharge he returned to work for the Great Northern Railroad. 

In 1952 he married Gen Nash. They raised their three daughters in Whitefish, which allowed them access to the great outdoors. When not working or raising his family. Ross could be found hunting, fishing, gardening and climbing up mountainsides. He fished and hunted from the Great Lakes to Alaska. Ross loved the outdoors and found his peace in nature. He shared his knowledge and many family memories were created from his passion for the outdoors. 

Ross and Gen owned the Palace Bar during the 1970s and were active in the Moose Lodge where he enjoyed cooking. He retired from the Burlington Northern in 1986. Ross enjoyed traveling with Gen until her death in 1988. 

He always dreamed of living on a lake and his dream became a reality when he moved to Glen Lake. His love of gardening created a serene oasis. At this time Ross welcomed his special friend Mona Shook and her family into his heart and family.

Ross was a true Montana man. He could grow it, catch it, shoot it and prepare it for bountiful tables to share with family and friends.  His quiet manner and sly humor will be missed by all who knew him. 

Dad no matter where we are, your spirit will always be beside us.  As there is no expiration date on the love between a father and his family. 

Preceded in death by his parents, sister, and wife Gen and Mona Shook. 

He is survived by his three daughters Vicki Gallo Whitefish, Colleen Armstrong Ocean Shores, Washington and Jackie Gray (Dennis) of Kalispell. Grandchildren Tom Gallo (Jessica), Mike Gallo, Amanda Fischer and Genna Gray. Great-grandchildren Violet and Zoe Gallo and Lawton Williams. 

At his request there will be no services. Austin Funeral & Cremation Services in Whitefish is caring for the family.