The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

Louis Virgil Beirwagen passed away on Wednesday September 13, 2023 at the Big Sandy Medical Center in Big Sandy, Montana. In the words of a long-time friend, "The harvest is done. The grain bins are full. It's time to rest."

Louis was born April 6, 1927, on the family homestead farm in the Loma, Montana, area, and lived his entire life there. He is preceded in death by his parents Margaretha and Ludwig Beirwagen and his siblings Art, Virgil, and Alice. He is survived by his wife June; his children Diane (Joel Westby), Duane (Iryna), Cherie (Steve) Stiles, and Karen (Doug) Baker; his 11 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; 18 in-law sisters and brothers; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who are all a part of this loving family.

Louis was confirmed in the Lutheran Church at 15, a significant life and faith experience for him. At 16, he left school at the beginning of his sophomore year at Big Sandy High School, to manage the farm full time.

Years later, Louis ushered at church where he was introduced to a smart, lovely home economics teacher, June Zanto. They were married a year and a half later on December 27, 1953. Together, they raised their four children and enjoyed traveling with family and friends. In later years, they mostly enjoyed visiting with their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Louis valued community involvement. His time serving in Farm Bureau, Big Sandy School Board, and church council are a few of his leadership positions.

Louis cherished family and involved immediate and extended family in farming operations. He invited laughter, taught skills, and gave encouragement. He continued farming until passing it on to his son, who then passed it onto Louis' grandson, making it a Centennial Farm in 2012.

The family has chosen a private funeral and burial. You can leave messages, send cards, donate to memorials, and find information at Benton Funeral Home, http://www.bentonfh.com or (406) 622-3621. In lieu of flowers, the family requests cards to his wife June and memorials made to Big Sandy Medical Center or Christ Lutheran Church.