Great Falls —Donald Neil Hackwith, 86, of Great Falls, passed away peacefully December 29, 2016, at Peace Hospice.

Don was born December 1, 1930 in Toulon, IL. to Horace "Bud" and Louella Mock Hackwith.

After growing up on the farm, Don joined the United States Air Force in 1951 and served in Korea. He went on to serve in Vietnam and the Cold War, earning two Bronze Stars before completing his 32-year career as a Chief Master Sergeant. In the years following Korea, Don became an accomplished pilot, and flew with several flying clubs on the east coast.

In 1962, while stationed in Germany, Don met and married the love of his life, Brigitte K. Bayer. From this union two children were born. Don and Brigitte were married for 54 years, 7 days, at the time of his passing. Despite his devotion to his country and enjoyment of many past times, Don never failed to place his family ahead of all other priorities.

Don was a Master Blue Lodge Mason and served as a Grand Lodge officer in the American Canadian Grand Lodge in Germany. He is also a Past Master of both Belt Lodge 134 and Delta Lodge 128. Don was a member of the Montana Cowboy Association and the Elks Club.

Don had a great love for the out of doors, hunting and fishing. He passed that love, respect and skill level on to both of his children.

Given his farm upbringing Don easily made friends in Montana's ranching community and frequently participated in cattle drives, round ups, branding and other ranching tasks. He considered this time on the ranch a vacation.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers: Jim, Bob, Phil, Charles and Dudley, his sisters: June Boyd, Ruth Sater, Florie Asplund, Carol Wirth and infant sister Betty Lou, and his beloved black lab Duke.

Don is survived by his wife of 54 years, his daughter and son, brother, sister and many nieces and nephews.

Complete obituary published in Great Falls Tribune on Jan. 3, 2017