Richard "Dick" Walsh, 70

Richard “Dick” James Walsh passed away peacefully at his home on Flathead Lake on July 28, 2026, at the age of 70.

Dick was a constant source of love, patience, and optimism, bringing happiness to everyone around him.

Born in Billings, Mont., in 1955, he was the ninth of 12 children born to Pat and Marie (Hunthausen) Walsh. He graduated from Helena High School in 1974 and Carroll College in 1978 with a degree in economics.

A dedicated and dependable leader, Dick began his career as a loan officer at Beneficial, advancing to office manager and regional leadership. He mentored countless employees, many of whom continued to thank him years later for the example he set.

Above all, Dick was a devoted husband and father. His greatest joy was his sweetheart and wife of 45 years, Kathy, and their two children, Thomas and Megan. He treasured every moment with his family and loved playing fetch with his granddog, Muldoon.

Whether working on projects at the cabin, traveling with family or visiting national parks, Dick found joy in being with the people he loved. An avid golfer, he never passed up an opportunity to play 18 holes and was fortunate to enjoy memorable rounds with family and friends across the country. His love of golf often took him to Arizona for the winter.

Dick shared a special bond with his siblings, especially his brother, Tom, with whom he shared a cabin on Flathead Lake. Together they spent countless happy hours golfing at Polson Bay Golf Course and enjoying the lake.

He was happiest bringing people together, organizing Hunthausen reunions at Legendary Lodge, captaining the pontoon during Walsh reunions at Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp, and hosting Smith family reunions at the Double W.

Dick met life's challenges with grace and patience. When his mother was diagnosed with dementia, he and Kathy, alongside other family members, lovingly cared for her for several years.

After her passing, Dick became a paraprofessional, where he enjoyed supporting students. He often came home excited to share something he had learned that day. He opened the gym at lunch so students could play basketball and represented non-certified staff during school district negotiations.

Diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer in December 2019, Dick faced his illness with courage. He continued living the life he loved until his final day.

All who knew Dick will remember his kindness, humility and generosity. He never sought recognition for the good he did; he simply believed in helping others whenever he could. He made everyone feel valued by seeing the best in every person and every situation. His absence will be deeply felt by all whose lives were brighter because of him.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. John Linford and the compassionate staff at Community Cancer Care + Prevention in Missoula for their exceptional care and support.

Dick is survived by his wife, two children, extended family and friends who love him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Marie Walsh; brothers Patrick, John and Edward Walsh; parents-in-law Lyle and Ardelle Smith; brothers-in-law Pat Cahill and Pat Weber; and nephews Patrick Kelly and Gavin King.

Memorials in Dick's name may be made to Polson High School (memo: "Dick Walsh"), SAFE Harbor of Lake County MT, or the Mission Valley Jr. Golf Association.

Services were held at All Saints Chapel on the Carroll College campus, 1601 N. Benton Ave., Helena. Viewing was Monday, Aug. 3, at 6 p.m., followed by the vigil at 7 p.m. The Funeral Mass was Tuesday, Aug. 4, at 11 a.m., with a luncheon reception afterward in the Upper Cube at Carroll College.