Charles David Gephart went to be with his creator on the beautiful morning of June 27th 2025, in Helena Montana after a health decline over the past few months.
Charlie was born to Dr. Paul Gephart and Nellie MacPhee on April 14,1936 in Waterville Maine. Charlie later enlisted in the air force at the age of 20. He was stationed in a multitude of places, including Europe. He served a total of four years. Later graduating from MSU in Bozeman. Years on, he’d settled in Miles City, Montana, working as a soil scientist. In this occupation he’d trek miles on foot. He would reminisce on his adventures of seeing the incredible views of the grasslands to rivers, creeks, and lakes of Montana. This gave him great gratitude to how beautiful and important the nature and history are of Montana. After retirement, his time was spent on his small ranch, having horses and sheep, as well as being involved in horse shows. Later, moving on to Bozeman, Townsend, then finally Helena to be closer to family.
Charlie loved Native American history, watching the rodeo, the songs of John Anderson, ZZ top and Stevie Ray Vaughn, collecting the artwork of Charlie Russell and up until a back injury at the age of 83, enjoyed riding his motorcycle. In the later years, he’d be home relaxing in his much beloved mission chair, enjoying a cowboy western film, the news, or watching sports. His family was a constant presence in his everyday life, whom he made feel appreciated, loved and encouraged. If you’d knock on his door, on the other side you’d be greeted with a smile and paired with a hug, cup of coffee, and listing ear about your life’s events. For him and his son in law, Chris, this would often be over sports, especially college sports. The time when Alabama defeated Ohio State in 2021 for the College Football National Championship was a noteworthy memory of triumphant cheer. His daughter Rebecca would habitually make art for him; then Charlie pleasantly placed them all over his home. Often, getting her pictures professionally framed. His grandchildren were a light in his life. His grandson, he’d refer to as “Red”, would gab about life and everything that was happening in his rapidly-changing life as a teenager going into college. They were also partial to the same style of clothing, Carhart’s and Levis. “I have something for you I think you’ll fit! Charlie would say then walk into his room and emerge holding a new garment, then handing it to his grandson with a grin. Obviously followed by the joyful “Ohhs and Awws” while holding the fashionable attire up. His granddaughter made him beautiful cards and pictures, usually depicting an adorable horse. Then pointing out with her the individual details of her work. He appreciated her cheerful attitude and valued her in his life. His son, Matthew Gephart, was not only his full-time caregiver to Charlie over the last few years, he was his best friend and support. This was an incredible blessing and comfort to have his son nearby. They regularly attended the newest gun show, then Matthew would assist him on shooting range. Charlie had an old injury to his shoulder, due to this, it limited his ability to hold his firearm properly. Matthew proceeded to customize something he could hold comfortably, enabling his shot. He appreciated his helpfulness and dependability.
Charlie will be deeply missed by his family, especially his grandchildren, who loved him tremendously. However, they take solace in knowing they will be reunited with him again one day.
“Take Me Back to Old Montana” by J.C. Cory 1913
Take me back where the sage is plenty
Where there’s rattlesnakes and ticks
Where a stack of “whites” cost twenty
Where they don’t sell gilded bricks
Where the old Missouri river
And the muddy Yellowstone
Make green patches in the Bad Lands
Where Sittin’ Bull was known
Take me where there’s diamond hitches
Ropes and brands and cartridge belts
Where the boys wore chaps for britches
Flannel shirts and Stetson felts
Land of alfalfa and copper
Land of sapphire and gold
Take me back to dear Montana
Let me die there when I’m old.
We would also like to include a very special thanks to the Doctors, nurses, and staff at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena. The amount of dedication and diligent care they provided for Charlie was incredible. Thank you all so much, and God bless you all in your careers.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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