James "Jim" Frost, 79

On Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, Jim Frost passed away after suffering from complications of a stroke and cardiac arrest. He was surrounded by his immediate family that afternoon, with love, laughs, tears, and conversations that made him smile.  

Born in Denver, Colorado on Feb. 20, 1947, to Avis and Galand Frost, he was the eldest of three children. Shortly after, his family moved to Montana where he would spend his formative years. As a child and into his teens, Jim enjoyed family trips to Flathead Lake boating, water skiing, and exploring Wild Horse Island. He also learned the value of hard work from his Father, Grandpa Everson and Uncle Harold, as he began a love affair with life on the farm. During high school, Jim was an avid athlete and excelled in the social aspects of school. Many escapades with buddies cemented relationships that resulted in lifelong friendships spanning many decades. He was a two-time state wrestling champion and all-state football player for the Spartans, winning the state championship in 1963. He was elected Senior Class President, much to the chagrin of the faculty, who demanded a revote which resulted in even more votes than the original election results.  Graduating high school in 1965, Jim attended the University of Utah on a wrestling scholarship. He also played football, further honed his social skills, and made new friendships that would last a lifetime. 

In 1968 Jim moved back to Montana, enrolled at the University of Montana and enlisted in the National Guard.  While at UM he met Lynda Marengo and they wed in March of 1973 and began their life on a farm in Corvallis, Montana. The dairy farm would eventually be converted to an apple orchard known as Frost Top MacIntosh.  He also began his career with the Burlington Northern Railroad that would last nearly 20 years. In 1978 Travis Brandon Frost came into their lives and became the center of their world.  Jim and Lynda would later move on in separate directions but remained good friends and continued to co-parent their son. Jim never missed any of Travis' events, whether it was a 5th grade band concert or State Swimming Meets, he was always there despite living in separate communities.  Jim provided many opportunities to his son growing up, taking him fishing, camping at state and national parks, attending concerts, and even took him to a couple of Super Bowls. Travis was Jim's priority, making time to be close to his son. He was an extraordinary father sharing many life lessons with his much-loved son who will carry on his legacy.   

Jim loved to hunt and fish. He especially enjoyed going to hunting camp with his best friend Steve. Many a tall tale was told around the bonfire, delighting the youngsters with embellished stories of adventures and misspent youth. Jim truly enjoyed fishing. His favorite spot was Holter Lake, where family, young and old, would meet to fish, laugh, swim and have a great time.  It was at Holter Lake, in the company of parents, siblings and all the nieces and nephews that Jim seemed the happiest.  

For nearly 30 years Jim hosted a tailgate at Grizzly Football Games, that began with a handful of fans and grew to as many as 50+ people. All were encouraged to come and enjoy a hamburger, hot dog or brat, and a beer. Jim took great pride in ensuring his guests always had their preferred drink of choice, special orders, or anything they needed to enjoy the tailgates.  Prioritizing other people's enjoyment earned him the nickname "The King of Fun".

 In 2009, Jim married Michelle Musial (Mickey), and she instantly brought him joy and was a companion that loved to go on adventures with him. They took several cross-country trips in their RV, had many adventures, and built a beautiful life together in Kalispell. Becoming Snowbirds, they spent winters in Salome, Arizona where they were the life of the party, hosting friends and family on RZR rides in the desert; holding an annual sourdough pancake breakfast; and just sitting on the porch enjoying a tall cool one with friends and family. For 17 years they shared their common bond of love with family and spent time caring for them in sickness and health. Mickey was his rock and always by his side, taking care of him and making sure he was loved.  

Jim is preceded in death by his father, George Galand Frost and sister, Becky Iola Haggard. Survivors include his mother, Avis Marie Frost (age 98) Yakima, Washington; brother, Randall Clayton Frost, Yakima Washington; son, Travis Brandon Frost (Jenniifer) of Kalispell, Montana; wife Michelle Janet Frost; stepchildren Jedidiah Musial (Bethany), Guelph, Ontario; Sarah Porcellato (Mirko) Penticton, British Columbia; Leah Gouvremont (Alain) Kemptville, Ontario; Josh Musial, Ottawa, Ontario, and several nieces, nephews, and step-grandchildren.

Embracing his title as the "King of Fun," Jim always made sure everyone had a good time and that they felt loved and appreciated. He will be remembered for his boisterous laugh, famous one liners, outgoing personality, and gentle smile that he shared with everyone.  He was a friend, a brother, a father, and a husband. He was a man that put the needs of others before his own and would always be there to lend a hand. Most of all he was our Patriarch that watched over the family.  

Jim did not want a funeral, so in lieu we will hold a tailgate on the day of the Grizzlies' first home game of the 2027 season. In his honor, everyone is welcome to come and raise a glass, share stories, and reflect on his well-lived charmed life. More information to follow in the upcoming year. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home caring for the family.