Gregory Hamlin Ames passed from this life after a short battle with cancer on June 11, 2017. He was born in Scobey, Montana on January 21, 1956 to Richard Gilbert Ames and Kay Frances Sullivan Ames.
After growing up with his siblings in Glasgow, Greg graduated from Glasgow High School, and then attended college and graduated from the Montana State University School of Engineering in 1978.
Upon graduation, Greg was employed as an engineer with Jack Foster of Townsend at Northwest Irrigation, Inc. While working there, he fell in love with the boss’s daughter. Susan and Greg were married on May 15, 1981 and spent the remaining years of his life enjoying the adventure they built together in Helena, Montana.
Greg’s career later ended up taking him to the State of Montana where he worked for the Department of Natural Resources & Conservation for 15 years. He transferred to the Department of Agriculture where he has served for the past 16 years as the Administrator for the Ag Sciences Division until the time of his passing.
Family meant the world to Greg and Susan, and they were the proud parents of four gregarious students and athletes. Lance was born in 1985, David in 1987, Ashley in 1990, and Nicole in 2000. Greg enjoyed coaching their various teams through the years including small fry football, basketball, baseball and softball. Last summer, he was proud to help coach Nicole’s ASA fast pitch softball U-16 team to a statewide championship.
The family lived on a farm in the Helena valley where Greg built their home. He took great pride in producing some of the highest quality horse hay in the valley. Farming was never a burden, but only a great joy to him. He also loved hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and river rafting. His favorite float was the Smith River trip which he was fortunate enough to take several times through the years. In addition, Greg loved flying. He took lessons in high school and received his license in college. He followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, Hub Ames, a pioneer pilot in Montana who flew every available plane during WWII.
Another joy of Greg’s was his involvement with the LDS Church. For the past five years, he was honored to have been called as the Bishop of the Helena 4th Ward. He loved the Gospel of Jesus Christ and lived his life as an example of that great love. As sad as he was to know he would soon be leaving us, he had no fear and greatly anticipated meeting his Savior, Jesus Christ, and having the opportunity to be in His presence and service.
Greg had an endless reservoir of compassion for people and loved everyone with whom he came into contact. Anyone who knew him was very familiar with that wide smile that so often lit his face. He loved life, he loved the Lord, he loved his family, he loved the world in which he lived, and he loved to work hard and accomplish much. Greg was universally loved by his family and countless others.
Greg is survived by the love of his life, Susan of Helena, plus children Lance and Jen of McAllen, TX, David, Ashley and Tony Dalton, and Nicole, all of Helena. He is survived by cherished grandchildren Alivia, Blake, Carissa, and Seth Ames, as well as Dallin Gregory Dalton, who was born the same day Greg passed from this earth.
In addition, Greg is survived by his father Richard of Billings, mother Kay of Salt Lake City, and four siblings, Julie Robinson, Jeannie Morrison, Mike Ames and Sheila Knoepke.
Viewing will be from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the family to receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 15th at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A Funeral Service will be at 1:00 p.m on Friday, June 16th at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1260 Otter Road in Helena. Dedication of grave will follow the funeral service at Deep Creek Cemetery in Townsend.
Greg’s family would like to thank all who have been overwhelmingly loving and supportive throughout this bittersweet journey.
Service Schedule
Viewing
12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Thursday June 15, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Family Receiving Friends
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Thursday June 15, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Friday June 16, 2017
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1260 Otter Rd.
Helena, Montana 59602
Graveside Service
Following the Funeral Service
Friday June 16, 2017
Deep Creek Cemetery
Townsend, Montana 59644
Service Schedule
Viewing
12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Thursday June 15, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Family Receiving Friends
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Thursday June 15, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Friday June 16, 2017
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1260 Otter Rd.
Helena, Montana 59602
Graveside Service
Following the Funeral Service
Friday June 16, 2017
Deep Creek Cemetery
Townsend, Montana 59644
Share
Della Dobbins says
Susan and family, I’m so sad that Greg has passed. Keep the memories close to your heart.
Della Dobbins
Stuart and Janice Doggett says
Sue and family,
Our hearts and prayers go out to each of you. Greg was someone we long admired for his dedication to family and his zest for life. He always went the extra mile to coach area youth and was such a positive example to the kids he mentored. We have so many positive memories of Greg and we are very sorry for your loss.
Stuart and Janice Doggett
Kari Coate says
Susan and Family,
We are deeply saddened by this news. I have many memories of Greg at softball and volleyball games throughout my youth–always there to give me a “good game” or some sort of heckle at the conclusion of the game. He was truly a good man of integrity and a strong leader in the Ames family. We always respected what he stood for and how he carried himself. I am thankful to have known him. We will keep your family close to our hearts and constantly in our prayers. We are very sorry for your loss.
Kari Rice Coate (and Erik)
Nan LeFebvre says
Susan and Family,
There are no words. I and the girls know your pain. The LeFebvre-Larsen family was blessed to have Greg in our lives. Greg was such a wonderful man and we are all better because of his positive influence. He was a great role model for Katie and Dave adored him.
We love you and are here if you need anything! Nan, Katie & Ally
Joe DeFilippis says
Susan and family, so sorry to hear of your loss. Greg was an amazing man, and will be missed throughout the community.
Kris (McElravy) Schmaus says
Susan and family, I am so very sorry to hear about Greg. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kelly Sheridan says
Susan, Nicole and Family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Greg was a amazing man and always so positive and encouraging to everyone. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Love, James, Kelly, Sydney, Jaymee and Katie Sheridan
Lee McDonald says
Sue and Family,
We were so sad to hear of Greg’s passing. We have so many fond memories of him. He was a wonderful, compassionate person.
Glen and Lee McDonald
Sherri & John Staats says
Susan and Family,
I was terribly saddened when I learned of Greg’s passing. I remember him as a kind and wonderful man when we were all in First Ward together. He did so many great things for many people. He has left a void here on earth but will do great work in heaven. Heaven has gained another bright start. May our Heavenly Father and Jesus wrap all of you in love during this time of sorrow and grief. But how we rejoice to know we will all be reunited with our loved ones again.
James Scoffield says
Susan and Family,
So sorry to learn of Greg’s passing. He was my first young mens leader. The fist of many great ones. I recall a very rousing game of spoons at the Foster cabin in Deep Creek canyon!!! He was a great role model and very competitive. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time!!
Mark Blatter says
Words fail me. I simply do not have anyway to express how sorry I am about Greg’s passing. When I spoke to him the first of March he was hopeful and happy, as he always was. Greg was simply one of the nicest, happiest and forward facing people I ever knew. I considered him a friend and have the fondest memories of the trips down the Smith we did together.
Jennine Watson says
Sue,
I was so sorry to hear today of Greg’s passing. You are loved! My thoughts and prayers are for your family at this time.
Love, Jennine Watson (Widders)
Matt Wetzel says
Sue and Family,
As I look back on my time with Greg, I remember hunting in the Elkhorns and on the Stanfill ranch in Townsend. I remember the great shot that he was. But, more importantly, I remember a kind, generous person who would offer all he had before seeing another suffer. His love of the Lord was clear from his actions. I look forward to the day we meet again. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Matt Wetzel
Tracy says
Susan, Nicole and Family,
We are sorry to hear about Greg’s passing. He was such a caring and thoughtful person, a positive role model for everyone. Keep your memories close. You’re all in our thoughts.
Randy, Tracy, Mikayla and Andrew Witter
Jan Clinard says
Susan and family,
My condolences to you for the loss of such a positive, generous, caring, and vibrant man. The quality of his hay reflected the quality of the man–outstanding. You’re in my prayers.
Jan
Terri says
Susan, Nicole, and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all–so sorry for your loss.
Terri, Ben and Kyle Norman
Tim McDowell says
Susan and kids, I am very sad in the loss of Greg he was an amazing man. Greg was a great coach and mentor to my boys and we will never forget him. Love and prayers for all of you and the rest of your family. Tim McDowell
Brenda Hinman says
Jim and I are so sad to lose Greg, such a good friend for so many years. We will miss him so much. You and Greg have such a wonderful family. We feel so thankful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ, in knowing that Families are Forever, and we will all see him again. Praying for all of you, that you will be comforted at this most difficult time. Love from Jim and Brenda
Teena Leanhart says
Susan and family
My love and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. May Gods love and strength surround you all.
Hugs , Suzi…..?❤
Teena
Marta Kindt says
Dear Susan and Family,
I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Greg, your beloved husband and Father.
I know the Lord will comfort and watch over you.
Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Much love, Marta Kindt
jOHN AND SHERRY ZIPPERIAN says
Sue and family – So sorry – as I read the other condolences I remembered how much fun it was to watch the GREG/SUE romance develop. ‘Beauty, Handsome, and Personalities Plus were joined as One”. I did not realize Greg was the same age as our oldest son, Kenny, who passed away three years ago. Feels like loved ones age 58 and 61 are way too young to lose (temporarily) but the Lord knows what He is doing and we who are left here have our jobs to do, too. Memories have sustained us, just as they will you.. With Love – John and Sherry Zipperian
Bridger veterinary hospital says
Dear Susan and family,
We are so sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. We will miss the tall Greg dipping his head at our counter as we chit chatted. We loved to see Greg’ s hay fields, love and beauty for all to see.
You are in our hearts and prayers,
Keith, Sharlene, Steve and all your friends at Bridger
Dolores Eustice says
My condolences to the family in Greg’s passing. I worked with Greg when I started to work for the DNRC WRD State Water Projects Bureau. He always had a smile and kind word for me to encourage this rancher that was starting work in latter life.
My prayers for your family, but so glad that Greg had a relationship with the Lord and looked forward to meeting Him personally.
Dolores Eustice
Taylor Hassler says
Ames Family,
My deepest condolences during this incredibly difficult time. Greg was a truly kind man, and his love for his family was always evident whenever I saw him with you. Continued thoughts and prayers your way. I am so sorry.
Taylor Hassler
Mark Peterson says
Susan and Family,
My deepest sympathy for your loss. I’ve known Greg since we were engineering students at MSU. Our paths crossed again when our son Scott played a variety of sports with David. I know Greg always enjoyed watching his kids participate and that they all brought great joy to his life. I hope your many fond memories of the time he spent with all of you will help ease pain.
Tammy brewer says
Greg games you help me through the toughest part of my life through my family they’re the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints I will never forget you I’ll never forget how much you help me Miranda Faustino anneliese in the hardest trial of my life that I’ve ever had a face I’ll always love and remember how thoughtful and caring your family was to understanding the tough times that we were going through and then X always remember at church you being the bishop of the Helena Ford the word and how you touched many lives not only mine you touched my life and we God himself could not even imagine I know you’re sitting up in heaven watching down on all of us you are will missed and always will be till one day we meet again up in heaven take care love always Tammy Brewer
Tammy brewer says
Prayers go to the whole family you guys were part of my family and still are Greg help me through the hardest time in my family God will only know how much he does for anyone and loves for anyone you be deeply missed grage Ames
Laurie and Terry Nugent says
Blessings and prayers sent to you, Susan, and your children. Your husband was a fine example of a devoted husband and father. What wonderful memories you all must have of a life well led!
Lee Holmes says
Greg’s love and infectious smile will be a huge loss to all of us who had the honor of knowing him. I never, ever heard a negative word fall from his lips. May Heavenly Father bring peace into your lives in the coming days.
Andy Pehl says
Greg was my best friend for several years at MSU and he really was a dependable hardworking man. He worked in the summers on the railroad and in the fall he was in good shape to play basketball and just have fun. Big smile and no bragging- just carried a big book bag and loved engineering (ag to be exact). We shared a high school coach Cactus Warner- and put together a team one Christmas break to play at the Scobey tournery. Stayed at Greg’s grandparents house. Memories just flow out of Greg to me right now– I am sure he was being a great grandpa to all those of his family. Absent from the body and present with the Lord. Susan you are in my prayers. Andy Pehl
Kevin Grzebielski says
Ames Family,
Me and my family are so sorry for your loss and feel truly blessed to have known Greg. Not only was Greg a large part of my childhood through baseball, Patrice and I also would have never met if not for him. We will never forget that. Please know that we are all thinking of you in these tough times.
Lisa Larson says
All our thoughts and prayers for you all at this most difficult time. May the good Lord bring peace and comfort to you all.
Angela and Arnold Cottrell says
Dear Susan and family. I don’t think I ever met a kinder man than Greg. He was big hearted and full of love and compassion for everyone. He made you feel like you were the most important person in the world. He was genuine and Christlike. The world will miss him but none will miss him more than you. If he had had the choice he would have remained on this earth with you but as it was he showed the world not only to live but also to die with faith and grace. Hugs.
Cheryl Grey says
So sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. May you and your family find peace and comfort as you cherish your memories and in knowing God’s plan.
William Ritchey says
Ames Family,
It was a pleasure to know Greg. He was my ward mission leader when I served as a full time missionary in Helena 4th back in Sept.-Dec. 2010. Elder Sims, Elder Johansson, and I all loved him. I hope you guys can feel His love at this time.
Elder Will Ritchey
Hayley and Karen Russell says
Susan, Nicole and family
We are sadden by the loss of Greg he was a great coach and a great mentor the love and passion he put into all of his activities and his kids. I’m glad we got to know him.
Hayley and Karen Russell
Tiffany Cox says
Susan and family, our deepest condolences during this difficult time. Greg was an amazing person and glad we had the chance to know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tiffany, Travers, Caylor and Caydann Cox
Brittani Bush says
Susan and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Greg was a great person and I enjoyed working with him to better Nicole’s pitching skills. He used to travel up to Great Falls with Nicole and a few girls from her team for lessons. I would love to offer lessons to her, free of charge if she is ever in the Great Falls area. Greg was always great to work with and I am so sorry to hear he has passed. Sending love, healing and prayers.
Donna Elletson Dascher says
Dear Ames family,
So sorry to hear the news of Greg’s passing. What a great guy he was. We went to school together in Glasgow and I will always remember him, never forget him!
Bob and Elaine Graveley says
Susan and Family- We are very sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. He was a wonderful man. Hold tight your many, many memories. Know you are in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless each one of you.
Heather Kiedrowski says
Sue and family,
I am so sorry to hear about Greg. May your faith and love for each other guide and comfort you during this time. My heartfelt condolences to you all.
Laurie (Scoffield) Baker says
Suzie, I am so sorry Greg has passed away. My heart goes out to you and your family! Sending love and hugs!
Heather Kalchbrenner says
Ames Family,
We are very sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. May the peace that comes from memories of love shared comfort you now and in the days ahead. You are in our thoughts.
Heather & Jaden Kalchbrenner
Harriet King says
Susan and children, Were so sad to hear of your loss. We know Lance and Jenn when they were in Northern Suffolk,.Va. I believe we had the pleasure of meeting you all in person. We are so saddened at your husbands passing and keep.all of you in our prayers. I’m grateful that families can be together forever and you have that marvelous promise to look forward too.Much love. Harriet , Melvin and Josh King.
Sean Mulla says
Ames Family,
Very sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences at this difficult time. As an employee of the Montana Dept. of Agriculture, I truly appreciated Greg’s support, kind words, and welcoming smile. He was a very genuine person who always made me feel like my work mattered. My prayers are with you at this difficult time. I will miss him.
Marci & Steve Lynn says
Dearest Suz & Family,
We are very saddened with the loss of your beloved husband, father and grandfather. May our Lord fill you with His peace, love and grace during this difficult time. Our love and prayers are with you.
Lynda Reisbeck says
Dear Ames Family,
So very sorry for your loss. Fond memories of your sweet Family in the First Ward. When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. May your many happy memories carry you through this difficult time, until you meet again.
Kelly Flynn says
Susan and all of the family,
My heart goes out to you. Greg always had that pleasant smile. He competed hard was was always fair. As we aged, I grew to respect him even more as I worked with on some Dept. if Ag protects. We shared a common love of the outdoors and , whether big bull elk or big bales of hay, we had much in common. I will miss him and look forward to seeing him in heaven. Best regards- Kelly Flynn
Lynn Staley says
Dearest Suzie & family. I am so saddened by the loss of such a wonderful husband, dad & grandfather. I feel so blessed to have known Greg. I pray that memories of special days will sustain you during the difficult times
Robyn Cassel says
Dear Ames Family,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you. I worked under Greg at the Dept of Agriculture for many years and always found him to be kind and caring to all his employee. Being from Glasgow, he always took time to ask how the Scotties were doing. We will all miss him. Take care and God bless.
Neil & Darlene Horne says
Susan & Family,
Greg was the finest neighbor you could have, always there when we needed anything, he was a great guy
Our prayers are with you.
John and Carol Brenden says
We are so saddened to hear this news. John has so many memories of the Ames family years ago in Scobey and thought a lot of Greg. Our deepest sympathy to you, Susan and your family.
Linda Vaughey says
My sincere sympathy to you and your family Susan. May the memories of your wonderful lives together comfort you and over time bring you peace. Arms around dear Susan.
Aggie Frankino says
Sue and family,
I am thinking of you fondly during this time of loss.May you find comfort in each other and all of your happy memories.
Love and blessings, Aggie Frankino
Karen Eldredge says
What I remember about Greg from our time in Helena was that he had so much love for his wife and children. He was a great example of being a loving husband and father. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Susan Cottingham says
Susan and family: I was so sorry to hear about Greg’s passing. My deepest and heartfelt condolences to you all .
Anne Yates says
We are so very sorry to hear about Greg’s passing. We had the opportunity to work with Greg at the DNRC. He was always quick to smile and laugh, which was no small thing in all of the long trips down to the Tongue River Reservoir. He was unfailingly positive and always treated everyone with respect across all cultures and backgrounds. We also had the opportunity to see Greg at the Lady Bruin basketball games where he beamed every time Nicole took the floor. Our hearts go out to you in your time of loss.
Anne Yates and Tim Bryggman
Dan Poff says
So sorry to hear of your loss. As an employee of the MT Department of Agriculture, I have known Greg for over 15 years as our Administrator. He always had a warm smile and kind words. I especially enjoyed that he took time to visit us out in the field offices. Always interested in what we were doing and there to offer support. He will be missed.
Sharon R Borer says
Sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. Always enjoyed working in his office filing papers relating to the Tongue River Dam project. One cold blustery day he invited me to spend the night at his house as it was too blissardy to get home. A fun person to talk to and be around.
Doris Mingay says
My heart goes out to you and your family Susan. May God give you peace. Doris Mingay
Bruce Rich says
Susan and family,
Although I worked for a different Dept., Greg and I worked together for years on Aquatic Invasive Species. We also had a lot of common outdoor interests, and I met you all at the house one night when he was sharing some elk hunting wisdom with me.
It is sure sad, and hard to believe, that Greg is gone… but he will live on through you and your great families…
Bruce Rich
Sarah Bond says
Susan and family,
No words can express your loss. Greg was a fine man, a shining example of how we can behave toward one another in joy, tolerance, and friendship. I wish you all peace and know you will be served by the love surrounding you.
Sarah Bond
Gay Ann Masolo says
Susan and family,
I’ve been out of the country and was so saddened to see your handsome husband died. I didn’t know him very well but knowing the beautiful family you had together shows what a sweetheart he was. My prayers are with you in the days ahead which will be difficult but be thankful you had such a great husband, father and grandfather in your life.
May God’s love help you and the happy memories. Hugs, Gay Ann