Kenneth George Lilyblad, 67

Kenneth George Lilyblad, 67, passed away Feb. 26, 2021, at his home in Absarokee, Mont. He was born Jan. 13, 1954, in Wardner, Idaho, to Rupert (Bob) and Beatrice (Bea) Lilyblad. Ken grew up on the West Fork of Pine Creek, Idaho, with his parents and younger sister, Sharon.

Ken loved the outdoors and could often be found fishing in the creeks, deer hunting with his Dad and playing on the baseball league his Dad coached. He had many adventures as a Boy Scout, including being part of the World Jamboree that was held at Farragut State Park in 1967. He was baptized that same year at the Church of Christ in Pinehurst. During high school, he was active in the wrestling team and especially enjoyed welding shop. Ken graduated in the class of 1972 from Kellogg.

He enlisted in the United States Navy soon after graduating and served in the Vietnam War aboard the USS Providence CLG-6 in the Pacific. After serving more than two years and receiving his honorable discharge, he returned to the Silver Valley and worked at several of the local mines. He became a certified Millwright and got on with TIC (The Industrial Company) where he set up industrial machinery for mills and mining operations around the U.S. including Alaska. Ken was always adding new skills to his resume and achieved numerous certifications during his career. His last position before retiring was Safety Coordinator at the Stillwater Mine in Nye, Mont.

Ken rededicated his life to the Lord in 1994 and asked his Dad to baptize him in a small lake in Kansas. The love he had for his family was obvious to all. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew and friend who deeply touched the lives of those who knew him. Some of his hobbies included gold panning, fishing and hunting. But spending time with his family and grandkids was what he enjoyed the most.

Ken will be greatly missed and always remembered for the joy he brought to others.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Lilyblad, at the family home in Absarokee; seven children, Karen, Cassie, Stephanie, Kenneth Jr, Danny, Tommy and Carmen; 17 grandchildren; sister Sharon; aunt Evelyn; uncle Bill; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Rupert and Beatrice; and son Aaron.

A celebration of Ken's life will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, March 12, 2021, at Smith's Funeral Home, 925 S. 27th St., Billings, Mont. Reception immediately following at the VFW, 1540 Broadwater, Billings.

Please visit Ken's memorial and sign his online guest book at www.smithfuneralchapels.com.