Ardell O'Meara

Ardell Joseph "Joe" O'Meara, of Great Falls, formerly of Teigen, MT., passed away at his home on November 9, 2013, with his wife, Laura, and son, Joseph, at his side from natural causes. He was 68 years old. He was born August 10, l945 in Lewistown, Mt. to Helyn (Rellich) and Jacob Pendley. He received his education in Lewistown, finishing it with a GED. Joe was a retired Army Reservist, having served 25 years in the 889th S.S. Company, Army Reserves of Lewistown, Montana, in charge of the Maintenance Section. He received his Honorable Discharge in 1989. In addition to his Military service, Joe worked at the Tresch Dairy at Lewistown, then later became employed at Teigen Land and Livestock in December of l968. He married Laura Staples of Roy, Mt. September 12, l970, and both were employed at the ranch. He was involved in the ranching, farming, and machinery maintenance, loving his job for almost 40 years. Their son, Joseph, entered their lives in l977. Joe became involved in the Winnett Community, being a Cub Scout Leader, and also helped run concessions stand at the Winnett High School for a few years. He was a member of the Winnett Volunteer Fire Department, a very dedicated man! He joined the American Legion, Sandman Post #95 in Winnett, becoming their Adjutant for several years. When he and his wife moved to Great Falls, he joined the Sun River Valley Post 130 in Vaughn, Mt. He was DEFINITELY the real "Good Joe"! He and his son, Joseph, enjoyed hunting; he was an avid football fan, always rooting for the Denver Broncos. Additionally, he was a self-professed History buff, but if pressed on this topic, he would reply with "I know what I know!" He is survived by his wife, Laura, son Joseph, daughter-in-law, Alicia (Adams) O'Meara, grandchildren David Myles, 5, and Helyn Elizabeth, 3, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his sisters Bobbi (Tommie) Crook, of Power, Mary (Steve) Carlson and Susan (Alan LaRocque) O'Meara, all of Great Falls, several nieces and nephews, and best friend, Ronnie Kastner of Winnett, Montana. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph and Mary Rellich, mother and step-father, Helyn and Dave Downing, father Jacob Pendley, brothers, Mike Claus and Patrick Claus and his Godfather Julius (Dick) Tresch. At Joe's request, no services are planned. Cremation has taken place. Memorials are suggested to the Winnett Volunteer Fire Dept., 108 Broadway AVE S, Winnett, MT. 59087-0038Condolences for the family may be posted online at www.schniderfuneralhome.com