Lester R. Ophus, 84, passed away due to natural causes at the Northern Montana Care Center with his wife by his side on Thursday, August 6, 2020. Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. at the Hanson Ranch . Lester's family has suggested memorial donations be made in his name to Shriner's Children Hospital or charity of your choice. Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with services and arrangements. Please visit Lester's online memorial page and leave a message of condolence for his family at www.hollandbonine.com .

Lester was born on September 9, 1935, in Big Sandy to Anton and Pearl (Sluggett) Ophus, the 12 ^th of 14 children. He was raised on the family ranch outside of Big Sandy and attended school in Big Sandy. He married Arlene Fisher in 1955 and together had seven children. In 1958, he entered the US Army and served until his honorable discharge in 1960. Lester worked for various ranches and implement dealers, Baltrusch Farms and then Baltrusch Construction. He was a gifted mechanic, cow man, and crane operator. He loved to tell a good story and had many to tell.

He was preceded in death by three infant children; grandsons, Jordan Hanson and Clay Morse; parents Anton and Pearl Ophus; nine siblings; and several other family members.

Lester is survived by his wife, Arlene Ophus; children, Lorrie (Paul) Hanson, Debbie (James) Degnar, Kenny (Kathy) Ophus, and Tom (Vickie) Ophus; fifteen grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; siblings, Lawrence, Vernon and Lyle (Barb) Ophus, and Loretta Murphy; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.