Leo Thomas Graham

Leo Thomas Graham, born May 19, 1931 in Rock Lake North Dakota to Ernest and Isabella Graham. Leo crossed over into the loving arms of his Savior Jesus Christ on February 18th in Philipsburg. The family moved to Fort Benton, Montana and later settled in Philipsburg. Leo attended Philipsburg Elementary and graduated from Granite High School. Upon graduation Leo was awarded a scholarship to play basketball at the University of Montana-Western. After college Leo enlisted in the Army and served in the Korean War. After the war, he returned to Philipsburg where he met and married Donna Stillman and raised six children. During that time, Leo worked in the mining industry throughout the Pacific Northwest. Leo excelled in mining and mentored many young men in that field. He then transitioned into ranching, leasing the Spring Creek Ranch from Doley and Alice Andre and there he stayed for 30 years. During that time, Leo met and married K. D. McKeeman and helped raise two daughters. Upon retirement Leo left the ranch in the hands of grandson, Thomas Graham. After retirement Leo spent his time enjoying his family, and continued to help with calving where he earned the nickname "Day Calver".

Leo was a man with kind eyes, endearing smile, and heart of gold. He took great pride in his family and Philipsburg. He was the most loving brother, father, and grandfather. He was a good friend. He was knowledgeable about everything mining, ranching, and life and enjoyed giving his best advice. Leo was a strong man with a lot of fight. He was adored by everyone. It is our hope as a family that when you remember Leo you think of his sweet laugh, and strong sense of humor. He was the best man and will be truly missed.

Leo was preceded in death by son Gordon, brothers Mervil and Lyle and sister Faye. Leo is survived by loving sisters Ferne Ballard and Laverne McDonald, wife K. D., sons Chris, Ron (Linda), Leo (Sarah), and daughters Leona (Bob), Kim, Tamara (Nick) and Laurie (Doug) and grandchildren Jarod (Carin), Tyler (Katie), Trevar, Thomas (Jennifer), Carl, Melanie, Samuel, Elizabeth, Kua, Dawn, Malia, Pali (Napua), Leo Kaolakia (Amber), Liaka (Jonah), Jason, Hayley, Hunter, Allison, and Huck, and numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Granite County Medical Center, 310 S. Sansome, Philipsburg, MT 59858 and the Head, Heal and Hope Foundation, PO Box 231, Philipsburg, MT 59858.

Funeral Services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 25, 2017, at the Granite County Museum in Philipsburg. Visitation hours will start one hour prior to the services at the Granite County Museum.

Burial will be held at the Philipsburg Cemetery. There will be a reception following the graveside services back at the Granite County Museum.

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Visitation

FEB 25. 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (MST)

Granite County Museum and Cultural Center
135 Sansome St.
Philipsburg, MT 59858

Service

FEB 25. 3:00 PM (MST)

Granite County Museum and Cultural Center
135 Sansome St.
Philipsburg, MT 59858