Thomas Dwight Felton

1941 – 2025 

Thomas Dwight Felton, known to all simply as Dwight, passed away peacefully in 2025, surrounded by family and the love he built throughout his full and adventurous life. Born in 1941, Dwight lived every year with passion, purpose, and a deep appreciation for the world around him. 

Dwight grew up on his parents’ dairy farm in Charlo, MT. His love for life was matched only by his love for the outdoors. He found his greatest joy in the simple pleasures—hunting at sunrise, casting a fishing line, ranching, riding horses, dancing, and sharing stories with those he loved most. He also took great pride in landscaping his yard, turning it into a place of beauty and peace. His storytelling, infectious laugh, and crooked smile will be missed by all. His sharp aim and steady hand were legendary, reflecting his lifelong dedication as an excellent marksman and sportsman. 

After high school, where he stood out as an outstanding athlete and accomplished football player, a select group of farmers and ranchers, including Dwight, were chosen to represent the FFA for Montana on a tour to Washington, D.C. Dwight was the youngest member of the group, an early testament to his leadership and dedication. He went on to experience a wide range of careers and adventures, beginning on a power line construction crew in Canada and later as a steam pipe fitter in Missoula. Never one to stand still, he delivered Christmas trees across several states—often stopping to hunt along the way—and served as a hunting guide in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. 

Dwight proudly served in the Army Reserves, worked as a mill hand, and eventually found his calling as a plumber and business owner with Olympic Peninsula Plumbing in Port Angeles, WA. He later returned to St. Ignatius to establish the Mission Valley Piedmontese cattle ranch while continuing his plumbing business. His dedication to ranching was recognized when he won Champion Bull Calf at the NILE in 1995 and Reserve Grand Champion Female at the NILE in 1996. 

A committed conservationist, Dwight passionately supported wildlife and habitat preservation. He served as president of Ducks Unlimited for four years, reflecting his belief in giving back to the land and the outdoor legacy he cherished. 

A devoted family man, Dwight’s greatest pride was his children and grandchildren. His love for them was boundless, and his passion for the outdoors will live on through the generations he inspired to explore, hunt, and fish with the same reverence for nature that he carried. 

Dwight was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Mervin. He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon—his partner in countless adventures; his children Mark Felton, Linda Blank, Tamara Lidster, Steven Felton, Heather Crockett, and Marie Guyer; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two brothers; three sisters; and many stepchildren and step-grandchildren.

Those who knew Dwight will remember his infectious love of the outdoors, strong work ethic, integrity, humor, and deep devotion to family. He leaves a legacy of warmth, strength, and the enduring belief that life—like a good day in the woods—is best when shared.