Darrell Rodger Ehlert left us peacefully on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at his home surrounded by loved ones. Darrell was born in Bismarck, ND on July 23, 1934 to Rod and Anne Ehlert. When Darrell was 10, his parents had saved up enough money to buy a ranch near Victor, Montana. At 14, his father was killed in a mining accident leaving him to work the ranch while going to school. He went on to graduate from Victor and later attended University of Montana and then Western Montana until going to work for the railroad. He would later teach school before going to work at the cement plant in Montana City until retirement. Darrell met and married Dolly Ehlert in Helena in 1963. Though they had talked about having a big family, they ended up with one son. But they always called Michael Wong their second son. Dolly passed away in 2008, but Darrell was blessed to fall in love again with Patricia Markle and spent the remainder of his life by her side.
Those who knew Darrell or “D” as he was called by many of his friends, knew him for his constant smile and ability to quickly become friends with anyone. He never seemed to forget a face or a name. The number of people that came to visit him these past few months was a true testament to how many very good friends he had.
Darrell was preceded in death by Dolly Ehlert (Wife), Justin Vance Ehlert (Son), Duane Ehlert (Younger brother), Hugh Ehlert (Older brother), Rod Ehlert (Father) and Anne Ehlert (Mother).
Darrell is survived by Patricia Markle (His loving angel), Jeff Ehlert (Son), Diane Ehlert (Daughter in-law), Jordan Ehlert (Grandson), Taylor Ehlert (Granddaughter), and Patricia’s three daughters and their families, who always made him feel very much a part of their family with their love and care.
A memorial service will be scheduled in the spring to allow safer travel for out-of-state relatives. The announcement will be in the paper.
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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Kendra (Zins) Lenhardt says
Darrell was such a kind and fun man! I remember as a kid we would he would take us sometimes when he went and fed the horses and mules. He had so much patience and would answer the million questions I always asked. Darrell was loved by so many and will be greatly missed. So much love to Jeff and Patricia and her girls💕
Rob Dickey says
Darrell and I were in a coal mill explosion and both burned. He ignored his burns and made sure I was taken care of. From that time on we remained great friends. I loved him and will miss seeing him.
Steven Mosby says
D was the best and coached my first basketball coach in Logan absolutely adored the man
Don Pratt says
To Pat and family So sorry to hear of the passing of D . Judy and I lived in the apartment on Winnie when we first moved here. Had a great time and a wonderful friendship with them which we kept till now. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bob Hoffman says
Sorry to hear that Darryl had passed. He was a good friend. I often recall our trips into the Bob Marshal and a great hunting trip in the Big Hole. He will be missed.
Richard "Fritz" Gillespie says
D was my 8th grade teacher at Logan during the 1957-58 school year. He taught the 6th, 7th & 8th grades all in one room. His desk was behind us. He was very accurate flinging chalkboard erasers at classroom disrupters who had to return the eraser & receive his “guidance.” We thought he was tough but fair. I knew he lived near Montana City but we didn’t cross paths until about 15 years ago at Chubbie’s. I learned he had been following my activities with approval for much of my adult life. It is a testament to his character that he cared that much about others.