Fred 'Butch' Schmauch, 81
Daily Inter-Lake | UPDATED 1 day, 4 hours AGO
Frederick Arnold Schmauch, born July 14, 1944, in Kalispell passed away unexpectedly on March 31, 2026, with family by his side.
Known to friends and family as Butch, and professionally as Fred Scott, he lived a life full of personality, humor and unforgettable presence.
Fred began his broadcasting career while still in high school at KLCB in Libby, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion. He also had a love for cars and adventure and was part of establishing the Igniters Car Club in 1961.
Following his service in the United States Army, Fred continued in broadcasting in Helena, and later in Salt Lake City, Utah. Throughout his career, he worked with KBLL Radio, KALL Radio, the Intermountain News Network, KTVX Channel 4 and KSL Channel 5. He was known for his strong presence, quick wit and a voice that truly belonged on the air.
In 1978, Fred met Mikel, and the two were married in 1984, building a life together rooted in love, partnership and years of shared experiences.
To his family, Fred was a father who loved being surrounded by those he cared about. He had a unique way of doing things — especially when it came to food — and those small, memorable moments will be cherished by those who knew him best.
He is survived by his wife, Mikel Schmauch; his brother, Mike (Nancy) Schmauch of Missoula; his children, Dan (Kathy) Schmauch of Marion, Jerry (Lisa) Schmauch of Palmer, Alaska and Sarah (John) Hogan of Libby.
He is also survived by his grandchildren, Kyle (Killian) Schmauch of Helena; Ryan Schmauch of Kalispell; Tyler (Bree) Schmauch of Salt Lake City; Zoie (Kyle) Stapley of Brigham City, Utah; Wyatt Schmauch of Morgan, Utah; Shanelle (Chuck) Soileau of Libby and Tania Hogan of Oak Harbor, Washington; and by his great-grandchildren, Callum, Granger, Dalton, Jason, Isabella and Raymond.
He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Mickey Abentroth; brother-in-law, Tom (Ellen) Mitchell; several nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews; and Hazel Halsey, his father’s longtime companion.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Ada Schmauch and his sister, Sally Abentroth.
A celebration of life will be held in Libby, late September 2026. Details will be shared at a later time.
Fred will be deeply missed and always remembered.
Fred 'Butch' Schmauch