Ernest William Thureno, 62, passed away Feb. 3, 2015, in Kalispell, in a vehicle accident.

He was born on December 27, 1952, in Lynwood, California, to Ernest William Thureno and Virginia Marilyn Thureno. He grew up in Downey, California, and graduated from Downey High School. 

He joined the U.S. Navy November 1973, was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, attained rank of E-3 Airman, worked as an aircraft mechanic, helicopter crewman and on mines countermeasures. He served in Egypt, Italy, Scotland and other countries. He completed his military service in October 1976, and returned to California. He was a Christian, married and raised his two children there until moving to Montana.

He dearly loved his two children and was overjoyed last October with the birth of his first grandchild Mackenzie. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing, hiking, camping, landscaping his yard and was always ready to help his family, friends and anyone who had a need.

He is survived by his wife Margarite Putman; son Ernest Thureno; daughter Marena Thureno-Collins, son-in-law Cale Collins; granddaughter Mackenzie Collins; two sisters Kathy Gallagher and Ellen Reece and brother-in-law Ed Reece; four nieces, one nephew, numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, mother of his children Carol Curtis; many other family members, longtime friends and colleagues.

A viewing was held Feb. 6 at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home in Kalispell. A celebration of life was held on Feb. 8, at the Swan Lake Grange Hall. A special thank you to all Ernie’s friends who organized the memorial service and provided a wonderful meal and for the beautiful flower arrangements prepared by Jessi Way.

An online obituary may be viewed and memories and condolences maybe sent to Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home at www.jgfuneralhome.com.