Gene J. Van Dort, 66

Gene J. Van Dort, 66, of Kalispell died June 4, 2014.

He was born March 22, 1948, in Dover, Ohio. He was raised in Kalispell and graduated from Flathead High School in 1967.

Gene worked at Plum Creek plywood mill from 1967 to 1975. In 1975, he started Pioneer Log Homes and proudly built over 85 homes in Montana. Later Gene began focusing his talent on finish carpentry. The fruits of some of his work can be seen in the restoration of the Kalispell Hotel and many custom homes in the Valley. Gene’s creativity, precision and love of woodcrafting will continue to bring joy to others for generations. Gene also has a deep appreciation for Montana and Flathead Valley. He made it a priority in his life to show patriotism and honor veterans. He proudly served six years in the Montana National Guard. Gene was revered for his warm smile, quit wit and sense of humor.

He spent 23 years sharing his life with his partner, Terri Thompson. Gene and Terri shared a love for the outdoors. They also found great joy and comfort with their dogs. Gene will be missed and is loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Gene married Holly Glidden in Kalispell in 1966; they were married for eight years.

Gene was preceded in death by his son, Gene E. Van Dort; parents, Earl and Betty Van Dort; and life partner, Terri Thompson.

He is survived by his son, Kevin Van Dort; sister, Dody (Van Dort) White; brother, Jon and Penny Van Dort; granddaughter, Malia M. Van Dort; and nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place.

A celebration of Gene’s life will be from 1 to 4 p.m. June 14 at the Eagles Lodge in Kalispell.