Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
In Memory Of
William "Bill" Ellery Almy Jr., age 97 of Miles City.
September 7, 1926 – January 6, 2024
William Ellery Almy Jr., born in Philadelphia to William and Gertrude Thayer Almy on September 7, 1926, was a trailblazing adventurer with a vibrant intellect and skilled hands.
As the eldest of seven children, he embraced life with boundless curiosity, demonstrating his problem-solving prowess at every opportunity including constructing a treehouse atop the tallest tree on the family property. Engaging in such endeavors not only cultivated his ability to communicate the rationale behind his choices but also fueled his unquenchable thirst for exploration.
Skipping conventional high school completion, Bill finished a summer Latin class before embarking on college where he refused to let formal schooling hinder his quest for an education. His billiards and card-playing talents flourished more rapidly than his mechanical engineering studies and he transitioned from academia, having acquired what he deemed sufficient skills, to embark on a series of diverse adventures.
As an Army Air Corp Cadet toward the end of WWII, Bill aspired to learn to fly. When the war concluded, and the urgent need for new pilots diminished, he seized the chance to receive his pay and chose civilian life.
At a poker table with departing cadets, he accumulated enough cash to enroll in a private flight school, using their cash to fund his flying lessons.
Oregon beckoned him, and he scaled trees to hold mirrors for his coworkers, aiding in recording measurements for topography maps. Always eager to climb higher, both for better pay and personal challenge, Bill never shied away from striving for new heights.
In a pivotal move, Bill arrived in Albion, Montana, to work at the Jim Oliver ranch. This marked the beginning of a new chapter, presenting new opportunities for adventure, skill acquisition, and weather acclimatization as he hoped to journey north to Alaska.
Two enduring passions captured his heart and bound him for a lifetime — the resilient school marm, Joyce Darlene Ochsner, he met in August and married in November, and the ranch work that would test his grit and provide him with a lifetime filled with challenges and triumphs.
Over the next 68 years, they weathered the storms of life, building a partnership that involved music, dancing, card games, caring for cattle, ranch ownership, livestock auction management, and the upbringing of four children. Their committed partnership allowed them to evolve as individuals and meld their strengths into a formidable team.
In 1960, the ranch at Ismay was purchased and became the canvas for Bill's progressive vision. With the help of family and dedicated employees, Bill cared for the land, ensuring that Keystone Ranches, Inc. reciprocated by supporting its caretakers. His forward-thinking nature led to the development of an innovative watering pipeline system.
Embracing cattle AI programs and venturing into the exotic cattle and club calf business showcased his commitment to advancing the livestock industry. Despite lacking a legacy background in agriculture, Bill ardently pursued knowledge through collaborations with experts, extension services, and research stations.
Recognizing a need for improved livestock marketing, Bill along with many other ranchers in the region, helped bring into being Baker Livestock Auction. Quite unintentionally he became the manager at BLA and later purchased the market to continue its operation. In his 60's Bill launched Ismay Livestock Yards to ensure his ability to buy and sell livestock no matter where he lived.
His remarkable journey through life was characterized by an insatiable curiosity and a relentless pursuit of knowledge beyond ranching. He read voraciously and took business, economics and ornithology courses. He participated in the MSU Steer of the Year scholarship program to encourage others into agriculture and ever the mentor, Bill, delighted in guiding young ranchers into the industry he cherished.
Beyond his ranching pursuits, Bill found joy in big band and old cowboy trail music and his talented wife's singing at the piano. Music filled the Almy home and vehicles, momentarily silenced only during livestock reports so he could stay abreast of market trends.
Attending events where he could dance with his wife or strategize at the card table brought him great pleasure as well as sitting in the church pew when his wife had the opportunity to preach.
For those who worked alongside him, the rallying cry of "More Cattle!" defined Bill's ethos—a call to action, a reminder to hustle, and a commitment to achievement regardless of circumstances. May his legacy as a respected cattleman resound through the pastures he tended, inspiring us to excel and echo his spirited call, "More Cattle!"
Remaining to continue their earthly journeys are his children/spouses/families: son William E. III (Barb) Almy, grandchildren William E. Almy IV, Gwen (Fr Aaron) Warwick and Emmelia, Adrian, Dominic, Simone, Susie Almy, Lydia, Lucia, William John Henandrez, Deborah Almy; son Curtis (Patsy) Almy, Toby-Jeanne Almy; daughter Dawn (Lary) Lamoreux, Rachel and Jimmy Minor and Addison, Cale and Samantha Lamoreux, grandchildren Michelle, Garett, Noah, Christin and Andrew Sullivan, Emry, Landon; and daughter Libby Almy (Don), grandchildren Chantelle Hennberry (Joel), Leah and Lucas Mostad , Kt (Eric) Foster, Kiana (Jeffery) Johnson, Devon Solberg.
Bill is also survived by his sister Nini and brothers John, Charles, and Chris.
He is preceded in death by his wife Joyce and siblings who died in their youth, Ann and George.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 starting at 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.
Interment will be held at a later date in the family plot of the Custer County Cemetery, Miles City, MT.
In Memory Of
William "Bill" Ellery Almy Jr., age 97 of Miles City.
September 7, 1926 – January 6, 2024
William Ellery Almy Jr., born in Philadelphia to William and Gertrude Thayer Almy on September 7, 1926, was a trailblazing adventurer with a vibrant intellect and skilled hands.
As the eldest of seven children, he embraced life with boundless curiosity, demonstrating his problem-solving prowess at every opportunity including constructing a treehouse atop the tallest tree on the family property. Engaging in such endeavors not only cultivated his ability to communicate the rationale behind his choices but also fueled his unquenchable thirst for exploration.
Skipping conventional high school completion, Bill finished a summer Latin class before embarking on college where he refused to let formal schooling hinder his quest for an education. His billiards and card-playing talents flourished more rapidly than his mechanical engineering studies and he transitioned from academia, having acquired what he deemed sufficient skills, to embark on a series of diverse adventures.
As an Army Air Corp Cadet toward the end of WWII, Bill aspired to learn to fly. When the war concluded, and the urgent need for new pilots diminished, he seized the chance to receive his pay and chose civilian life.
At a poker table with departing cadets, he accumulated enough cash to enroll in a private flight school, using their cash to fund his flying lessons.
Oregon beckoned him, and he scaled trees to hold mirrors for his coworkers, aiding in recording measurements for topography maps. Always eager to climb higher, both for better pay and personal challenge, Bill never shied away from striving for new heights.
In a pivotal move, Bill arrived in Albion, Montana, to work at the Jim Oliver ranch. This marked the beginning of a new chapter, presenting new opportunities for adventure, skill acquisition, and weather acclimatization as he hoped to journey north to Alaska.
Two enduring passions captured his heart and bound him for a lifetime — the resilient school marm, Joyce Darlene Ochsner, he met in August and married in November, and the ranch work that would test his grit and provide him with a lifetime filled with challenges and triumphs.
Over the next 68 years, they weathered the storms of life, building a partnership that involved music, dancing, card games, caring for cattle, ranch ownership, livestock auction management, and the upbringing of four children. Their committed partnership allowed them to evolve as individuals and meld their strengths into a formidable team.
In 1960, the ranch at Ismay was purchased and became the canvas for Bill's progressive vision. With the help of family and dedicated employees, Bill cared for the land, ensuring that Keystone Ranches, Inc. reciprocated by supporting its caretakers. His forward-thinking nature led to the development of an innovative watering pipeline system.
Embracing cattle AI programs and venturing into the exotic cattle and club calf business showcased his commitment to advancing the livestock industry. Despite lacking a legacy background in agriculture, Bill ardently pursued knowledge through collaborations with experts, extension services, and research stations.
Recognizing a need for improved livestock marketing, Bill along with many other ranchers in the region, helped bring into being Baker Livestock Auction. Quite unintentionally he became the manager at BLA and later purchased the market to continue its operation. In his 60's Bill launched Ismay Livestock Yards to ensure his ability to buy and sell livestock no matter where he lived.
His remarkable journey through life was characterized by an insatiable curiosity and a relentless pursuit of knowledge beyond ranching. He read voraciously and took business, economics and ornithology courses. He participated in the MSU Steer of the Year scholarship program to encourage others into agriculture and ever the mentor, Bill, delighted in guiding young ranchers into the industry he cherished.
Beyond his ranching pursuits, Bill found joy in big band and old cowboy trail music and his talented wife's singing at the piano. Music filled the Almy home and vehicles, momentarily silenced only during livestock reports so he could stay abreast of market trends.
Attending events where he could dance with his wife or strategize at the card table brought him great pleasure as well as sitting in the church pew when his wife had the opportunity to preach.
For those who worked alongside him, the rallying cry of "More Cattle!" defined Bill's ethos—a call to action, a reminder to hustle, and a commitment to achievement regardless of circumstances. May his legacy as a respected cattleman resound through the pastures he tended, inspiring us to excel and echo his spirited call, "More Cattle!"
Remaining to continue their earthly journeys are his children/spouses/families: son William E. III (Barb) Almy, grandchildren William E. Almy IV, Gwen (Fr Aaron) Warwick and Emmelia, Adrian, Dominic, Simone, Susie Almy, Lydia, Lucia, William John Henandrez, Deborah Almy; son Curtis (Patsy) Almy, Toby-Jeanne Almy; daughter Dawn (Lary) Lamoreux, Rachel and Jimmy Minor and Addison, Cale and Samantha Lamoreux, grandchildren Michelle, Garett, Noah, Christin and Andrew Sullivan, Emry, Landon; and daughter Libby Almy (Don), grandchildren Chantelle Hennberry (Joel), Leah and Lucas Mostad , Kt (Eric) Foster, Kiana (Jeffery) Johnson, Devon Solberg.
Bill is also survived by his sister Nini and brothers John, Charles, and Chris.
He is preceded in death by his wife Joyce and siblings who died in their youth, Ann and George.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 starting at 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.
Interment will be held at a later date in the family plot of the Custer County Cemetery, Miles City, MT.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
In Memory Of
William "Bill" Ellery Almy Jr., age 97 of Miles City.
September 7, 1926 – January 6, 2024
William Ellery Almy Jr., born in Philadelphia to William and Gertrude Thayer Almy on September 7, 1926, was a trailblazing adventurer with a vibrant intellect and skilled hands.
As the eldest of seven children, he embraced life with boundless curiosity, demonstrating his problem-solving prowess at every opportunity including constructing a treehouse atop the tallest tree on the family property. Engaging in such endeavors not only cultivated his ability to communicate the rationale behind his choices but also fueled his unquenchable thirst for exploration.
Skipping conventional high school completion, Bill finished a summer Latin class before embarking on college where he refused to let formal schooling hinder his quest for an education. His billiards and card-playing talents flourished more rapidly than his mechanical engineering studies and he transitioned from academia, having acquired what he deemed sufficient skills, to embark on a series of diverse adventures.
As an Army Air Corp Cadet toward the end of WWII, Bill aspired to learn to fly. When the war concluded, and the urgent need for new pilots diminished, he seized the chance to receive his pay and chose civilian life.
At a poker table with departing cadets, he accumulated enough cash to enroll in a private flight school, using their cash to fund his flying lessons.
Oregon beckoned him, and he scaled trees to hold mirrors for his coworkers, aiding in recording measurements for topography maps. Always eager to climb higher, both for better pay and personal challenge, Bill never shied away from striving for new heights.
In a pivotal move, Bill arrived in Albion, Montana, to work at the Jim Oliver ranch. This marked the beginning of a new chapter, presenting new opportunities for adventure, skill acquisition, and weather acclimatization as he hoped to journey north to Alaska.
Two enduring passions captured his heart and bound him for a lifetime — the resilient school marm, Joyce Darlene Ochsner, he met in August and married in November, and the ranch work that would test his grit and provide him with a lifetime filled with challenges and triumphs.
Over the next 68 years, they weathered the storms of life, building a partnership that involved music, dancing, card games, caring for cattle, ranch ownership, livestock auction management, and the upbringing of four children. Their committed partnership allowed them to evolve as individuals and meld their strengths into a formidable team.
In 1960, the ranch at Ismay was purchased and became the canvas for Bill's progressive vision. With the help of family and dedicated employees, Bill cared for the land, ensuring that Keystone Ranches, Inc. reciprocated by supporting its caretakers. His forward-thinking nature led to the development of an innovative watering pipeline system.
Embracing cattle AI programs and venturing into the exotic cattle and club calf business showcased his commitment to advancing the livestock industry. Despite lacking a legacy background in agriculture, Bill ardently pursued knowledge through collaborations with experts, extension services, and research stations.
Recognizing a need for improved livestock marketing, Bill along with many other ranchers in the region, helped bring into being Baker Livestock Auction. Quite unintentionally he became the manager at BLA and later purchased the market to continue its operation. In his 60's Bill launched Ismay Livestock Yards to ensure his ability to buy and sell livestock no matter where he lived.
His remarkable journey through life was characterized by an insatiable curiosity and a relentless pursuit of knowledge beyond ranching. He read voraciously and took business, economics and ornithology courses. He participated in the MSU Steer of the Year scholarship program to encourage others into agriculture and ever the mentor, Bill, delighted in guiding young ranchers into the industry he cherished.
Beyond his ranching pursuits, Bill found joy in big band and old cowboy trail music and his talented wife's singing at the piano. Music filled the Almy home and vehicles, momentarily silenced only during livestock reports so he could stay abreast of market trends.
Attending events where he could dance with his wife or strategize at the card table brought him great pleasure as well as sitting in the church pew when his wife had the opportunity to preach.
For those who worked alongside him, the rallying cry of "More Cattle!" defined Bill's ethos—a call to action, a reminder to hustle, and a commitment to achievement regardless of circumstances. May his legacy as a respected cattleman resound through the pastures he tended, inspiring us to excel and echo his spirited call, "More Cattle!"
Remaining to continue their earthly journeys are his children/spouses/families: son William E. III (Barb) Almy, grandchildren William E. Almy IV, Gwen (Fr Aaron) Warwick and Emmelia, Adrian, Dominic, Simone, Susie Almy, Lydia, Lucia, William John Henandrez, Deborah Almy; son Curtis (Patsy) Almy, Toby-Jeanne Almy; daughter Dawn (Lary) Lamoreux, Rachel and Jimmy Minor and Addison, Cale and Samantha Lamoreux, grandchildren Michelle, Garett, Noah, Christin and Andrew Sullivan, Emry, Landon; and daughter Libby Almy (Don), grandchildren Chantelle Hennberry (Joel), Leah and Lucas Mostad , Kt (Eric) Foster, Kiana (Jeffery) Johnson, Devon Solberg.
Bill is also survived by his sister Nini and brothers John, Charles, and Chris.
He is preceded in death by his wife Joyce and siblings who died in their youth, Ann and George.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 starting at 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.
Interment will be held at a later date in the family plot of the Custer County Cemetery, Miles City, MT.
In Memory Of
William "Bill" Ellery Almy Jr., age 97 of Miles City.
September 7, 1926 – January 6, 2024
William Ellery Almy Jr., born in Philadelphia to William and Gertrude Thayer Almy on September 7, 1926, was a trailblazing adventurer with a vibrant intellect and skilled hands.
As the eldest of seven children, he embraced life with boundless curiosity, demonstrating his problem-solving prowess at every opportunity including constructing a treehouse atop the tallest tree on the family property. Engaging in such endeavors not only cultivated his ability to communicate the rationale behind his choices but also fueled his unquenchable thirst for exploration.
Skipping conventional high school completion, Bill finished a summer Latin class before embarking on college where he refused to let formal schooling hinder his quest for an education. His billiards and card-playing talents flourished more rapidly than his mechanical engineering studies and he transitioned from academia, having acquired what he deemed sufficient skills, to embark on a series of diverse adventures.
As an Army Air Corp Cadet toward the end of WWII, Bill aspired to learn to fly. When the war concluded, and the urgent need for new pilots diminished, he seized the chance to receive his pay and chose civilian life.
At a poker table with departing cadets, he accumulated enough cash to enroll in a private flight school, using their cash to fund his flying lessons.
Oregon beckoned him, and he scaled trees to hold mirrors for his coworkers, aiding in recording measurements for topography maps. Always eager to climb higher, both for better pay and personal challenge, Bill never shied away from striving for new heights.
In a pivotal move, Bill arrived in Albion, Montana, to work at the Jim Oliver ranch. This marked the beginning of a new chapter, presenting new opportunities for adventure, skill acquisition, and weather acclimatization as he hoped to journey north to Alaska.
Two enduring passions captured his heart and bound him for a lifetime — the resilient school marm, Joyce Darlene Ochsner, he met in August and married in November, and the ranch work that would test his grit and provide him with a lifetime filled with challenges and triumphs.
Over the next 68 years, they weathered the storms of life, building a partnership that involved music, dancing, card games, caring for cattle, ranch ownership, livestock auction management, and the upbringing of four children. Their committed partnership allowed them to evolve as individuals and meld their strengths into a formidable team.
In 1960, the ranch at Ismay was purchased and became the canvas for Bill's progressive vision. With the help of family and dedicated employees, Bill cared for the land, ensuring that Keystone Ranches, Inc. reciprocated by supporting its caretakers. His forward-thinking nature led to the development of an innovative watering pipeline system.
Embracing cattle AI programs and venturing into the exotic cattle and club calf business showcased his commitment to advancing the livestock industry. Despite lacking a legacy background in agriculture, Bill ardently pursued knowledge through collaborations with experts, extension services, and research stations.
Recognizing a need for improved livestock marketing, Bill along with many other ranchers in the region, helped bring into being Baker Livestock Auction. Quite unintentionally he became the manager at BLA and later purchased the market to continue its operation. In his 60's Bill launched Ismay Livestock Yards to ensure his ability to buy and sell livestock no matter where he lived.
His remarkable journey through life was characterized by an insatiable curiosity and a relentless pursuit of knowledge beyond ranching. He read voraciously and took business, economics and ornithology courses. He participated in the MSU Steer of the Year scholarship program to encourage others into agriculture and ever the mentor, Bill, delighted in guiding young ranchers into the industry he cherished.
Beyond his ranching pursuits, Bill found joy in big band and old cowboy trail music and his talented wife's singing at the piano. Music filled the Almy home and vehicles, momentarily silenced only during livestock reports so he could stay abreast of market trends.
Attending events where he could dance with his wife or strategize at the card table brought him great pleasure as well as sitting in the church pew when his wife had the opportunity to preach.
For those who worked alongside him, the rallying cry of "More Cattle!" defined Bill's ethos—a call to action, a reminder to hustle, and a commitment to achievement regardless of circumstances. May his legacy as a respected cattleman resound through the pastures he tended, inspiring us to excel and echo his spirited call, "More Cattle!"
Remaining to continue their earthly journeys are his children/spouses/families: son William E. III (Barb) Almy, grandchildren William E. Almy IV, Gwen (Fr Aaron) Warwick and Emmelia, Adrian, Dominic, Simone, Susie Almy, Lydia, Lucia, William John Henandrez, Deborah Almy; son Curtis (Patsy) Almy, Toby-Jeanne Almy; daughter Dawn (Lary) Lamoreux, Rachel and Jimmy Minor and Addison, Cale and Samantha Lamoreux, grandchildren Michelle, Garett, Noah, Christin and Andrew Sullivan, Emry, Landon; and daughter Libby Almy (Don), grandchildren Chantelle Hennberry (Joel), Leah and Lucas Mostad , Kt (Eric) Foster, Kiana (Jeffery) Johnson, Devon Solberg.
Bill is also survived by his sister Nini and brothers John, Charles, and Chris.
He is preceded in death by his wife Joyce and siblings who died in their youth, Ann and George.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 starting at 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.
Interment will be held at a later date in the family plot of the Custer County Cemetery, Miles City, MT.
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