Thomas Ingbret Birk, 76, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 17, 2008, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Kalispell. He was born on Feb. 28, 1931, in Oak Park, Ill., to Ingvald and Selma (Thompson) Birk.

Tom returned to Cuba with his mother at the age of 10 months to join his father at the family ranch. In 1936, at the age of 5 he moved to Miami. Five years later, the family moved to the Flathead Valley and settled in the McGregor Lake area. This is where Tom received his early education, for the most part getting one-on-one instruction because of the remoteness of the area.

Tom worked with his parents farming and ranching until joining the U.S. Army where he served briefly.

On Sept. 2, 1950, Tom married Thallis Clare in Missoula. They made their home in Kalispell. One of Tom's endeavors included breeding and racing quarter horses around Montana.

Tom was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 27; a diagnosis that answered some of the struggles he had as a youth and continued throughout his life. He enjoyed conversations and just visiting with anyone who would come across his path. Tom's pastime was filled with his family and close friends as well as cooking and raising delicious tomatoes in his garden.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Doniell; and an infant son, Tom.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Thallis; two sons, Bret Birk of Whitefish, and Tim Birk and wife Julie of Kalispell; a daughter, Kim Bell, and husband, Lloyd, of Frenchtown; 10 grandchildren, Cody, Casey, Catie, Crystal, Jason, Jennifer, Colton, Nicole, Illyhia and Marshall; as well as three great-grandchildren, Cody, Issac and Fionia.

Memorial services for Tom will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 20, in the Johnson Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Jan Van der Poll of the Central Christian Church officiating.

The family suggests memorial gifts be given to Home Options/Hospice, 175 Commons Loop, Suite No. 100, Kalispell, MT 59901.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Tom's family. You are invited to go to www.johnsonmortuary.com to offer condolences and sign Tom's guest book.