Michael James “Mike” Rice left this earth too soon in a boating accident on April 25th. He was born on May 2, 1978 to Tom and Sharon Rice in Dillon, MT. He joined his brother Nolan, who became his lifelong best friend and confidant.
Mike grew up on the family ranch/farm in Dillon, MT where he learned the value of a hard day’s work from a young age. He believed in getting his hands dirty and working until his body hurt. He always said, “Put me to work!” Mike and Nolan always spoke of moving pipe before and after school for their dad and neighbors. There was also the annual Mother’s Day ditch cleaning followed by T-bone steaks (rare) at the Buffalo Lodge. He attended schools in Dillon. Mike played the drums in junior high band and like anything he ever tried, he excelled. He played football and ran in track during high school. He graduated in 1996.
He later attended and graduated top of his class majoring in autobody and a minor in business from WyoTech in 2002. He also became a certified welder during his schooling. Mike moved his family to Helena in late 2002, where he started as a body man at Collision Pro and proved his amazing ability to fix cars perfectly. In July 2008, he went to work for Mountain West Farm Bureau. There he studied hard and earned many certificates moving up the ladder. He most recently became the District Claims Manager. Until the day he left us, he was up at dawn to work and awake later than most in order to get it all done. Mike was tireless and his creative mind never slowed down in an effort to make the world better for everyone in it.
In February 2000, Jacob Collins was born, and Mike received his greatest title of his life: Dad. Being a dad came naturally to him and because he was so great at it, Madison Marie joined the family in June 2003. Mike’s kids were the reason he lived, worked so hard, and busted his butt to be the best he could be for them. He attended all their activities and bragged about their accomplishments with so much pride. Mike was so proud of his amazing kids. He will continue to watch over them even though he’s gone because he wouldn’t let any distance keep him away from the important events awaiting in their futures.
You could say that Mike came out of the womb talking because wherever he went, he was always making conversation with strangers, telling stories, or just talking with family and friends. There was never a dull moment when Mike was at a gathering and started telling stories of his past, especially those moments he’d shared with his buddies. As an adult, he loved to get a rise out of his mom with old stories of his shenanigans. Family gatherings were always fun with Mike around because his energy, laughter, and smile could light up a room. Mike loved the outdoors, beginning downhill skiing in Dillon JCs Little Skier program at an early age. He enjoyed working in his yard, throwing barbeques, and boating.
Along with his gift of gab, Mike loved deeply and wore his heart on his sleeve. He prided himself in discreetly picking up the tab for seniors at local bars and restaurants. He also loved buying gifts for those in need from the Giving Tree during the holidays. He most recently met his true love, Tracie, who filled the missing piece of his life.
Mike’s untimely passing will forever shape his families and friends lives because of the depth of the hole he leaves behind. Those who loved him will strive to continue his legacy even though we know his shoes will never be filled. On those days where the hole seems a bit too big, please make sure to tip one back in his honor.
Mike was preceded in death by his great-grandparents Cliff and Bertha Cerney; grandparents Gene and Mary Jane Rice and Jim and Marie Rebich; aunts Merry Lunde and Shirley Cooper; and uncle Arlie Cooper.
Mike is survived by his children Jacob “Jake” Rice and Madison “Madi” Rice of Helena; parents, Tom and Sharon Rice of Dillon; brother Nolan Rice of Filer, ID; fiancé Tracie Dahl of Helena; aunts and uncles Kim (Bill) Susag and Gary Lunde of Helena; great Aunt Ardis Rice of Helena; cousins Cory (Jessie) Lunde, Megan (Devin) Alfson, and Kelsey (Miles) Bell all of Helena, and Leonnie (Tom) Stewart of Washington; lifelong friends Shane Stewart and Brian Broyles; beloved companion Cinch; and numerous extended family and friends.
The family request donations be sent to the Lewis and Clark Search and Rescue (PO Box 473, Helena MT 59624) and/or Friends of Beaverhead County Fair (1025 Selway Drive, Dillon MT 59725).
The family will receive friends from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday May 5th at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home 3750 N Montana Ave Helena. A funeral service will be held on Thursday May 6 at 11 a.m. the funeral home. A reception will follow the service at Jorgenson’s Inn & Suites 1714 11th Ave in Helena. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday May 8th at Mountain View Cemetery in Dillon followed by a reception held at Elks Lodge 27 E. Center St. in Dillon.
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Wednesday May 5, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Thursday May 6, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Service
Thursday May 6, 2021
Jorgenson's Inn & Suites
1714 11th Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Graveside Service
11:00 AM
Saturday May 8, 2021
Mountain View Cemetery
Dillon, Montana 59725
Reception
Following the Graveside Service
Saturday May 8, 2021
Elks Lodge
27 E. Center St
Dillon, Montana 59725
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Wednesday May 5, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Thursday May 6, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Service
Thursday May 6, 2021
Jorgenson's Inn & Suites
1714 11th Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Graveside Service
11:00 AM
Saturday May 8, 2021
Mountain View Cemetery
Dillon, Montana 59725
Reception
Following the Graveside Service
Saturday May 8, 2021
Elks Lodge
27 E. Center St
Dillon, Montana 59725
Share
Kara Kipp says
Mike was a wonderful husband and father. He had a heart like no other. My memories are cherished forever!
Love Kara
Dr Chamberlain & Maureen says
Mike was very much liked by all the staff in the dental office as is Madi. We are heart broken at his loss & know that his wonderful family will help each other through this.
Linda L Cochran says
My heartfelt condolences to Tom and Sharon Rice and family I’m so sorry for your loss. If I could do something to ease your pain I would. Know that your family is in all of our thoughts and prayers.
Rick Later says
With SINCERE SYMPATHY R.I.P.
Rick & Cooky Later
Jeanine says
😔My heart goes out to Sharon & Tom t@ this most difficult time💞🙏
Melissa Cheney says
My heart breaks for you all as Mike was always the most kind, caring and sincere man! I loved reading his posts about his pride for his children , building projects for his community, having a beer with a stranger and of course the “bull-shit” pit!! My thoughts and prayers will be with all of you in the coming days, months and years ahead!
Cory Harrison says
Mike was a great friend growing up! Lots of good memories of us playing out at the ranch! Truly very sorry for your loss Tom, Sharon , Nolan and the kids!!
Cory Harrison
Rick & Terri Smith says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Tom, Sharon, Nolan, Jake and Madi. Mike was an adorable little boy who won our hearts years ago. He became a wonderful man and devoted father. He will forever be missed.
Love to you all,
Rick and Terri Smith
Joel and Jeanne Schnitzler says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Tom ,Sharon and family .. may God reach for your hand and help you through this trying time .
Terry Rawson says
All our thoughts and prayers to the family. So very sorry for your loss. May God be with you during this difficult time and comfort you.
Terry & Gayle Rawson
Terry and Gayle Rawson says
All our thoughts and prayers to the family. So very sorry for your loss. May God be with you during this difficult time and comfort you.
Jerrilea Archer says
Thoughts & prayers to Sharon, Tom & family! Mike will never be gone, he is now your Guardian Angel watching over all! Memories are forever.
Jerrilea Hawkins Archer
Shelly Riggin says
Tom, Sharon, Nolan and families, Bruce and I are so saddened by the loss of Mike. We wish there was something that would help you. I know you have a great family that will help you get through this. Our thoughts are with you.
Joy Arbour says
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I know your heart is aching, and I’m thinking of youwith comfort and love.
cathy SPEICH-FERGUSON says
I am holding Mike’s family and friends in my heart and my prayers tonight. May the Lord in his mercy wrap you all in his love and comfort as He welcomes Mike home into His loving arms.
Marlys & Bob Lee says
Tom & Sharon, my deepest sympathies. We were looking forward to meeting Mike and Nolan after hearing about them all these years. We will still look forward to hearing stories when we are together again. Love you!
Michelle Lingenfelter says
What a beautiful tribute. He was an all around great guy and will be so missed. My prayers are with your family
Steve and Salle Banning says
We send our love, thoughts and prayers to you in your loss of Mike. May God sustain you with His love, strength and peace.
Frank and Judy says
We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Shannon (Jones) Grossman says
I am so sorry for your loss. Mike was such a good friend to me. My prayers are with you and your family.
Roberta and Ken Threet says
Our prayers go out to family and friends. Mike was a friend to all and will leave a hole in this world. His friends were more than friends they were family.
Rhonda Robertson says
Dear Kim and Family,
We were saddened to hear of the loss of your dear nephew. A very beautiful tribute to him. He was taken way too soon. Praying for peace and comfort for you and your family. You have our heartfelt sympathy.
Bruce and Rhonda Robertson
Corinne Welborn says
I am so very sorry for your tremendous loss. Your son, dad, and brother was an incredible young mad. Prayers for you all.
Corinne Welborn
CURT DRAKE says
I’m so sorry for this huge loss. Mike was a respected, hard-working professional who made doing the right thing in each circumstance a top consideration. We are really going to miss him.
Russ and Denise Wolf says
Our thoughts and prayers to Madi and Jake as well as the rest of the family! May you find peace and strength to get you through! Mike was a great guy!!!!
Russ & Karen Kipp says
Beautiful tribute that describes Mike perfectly. He was always ready to help anyone & enjoyed doing it. The all around great guy that was a character in every good sense of the word. Sending love, thoughts & many prayers! Russ & Karen
Deb Kralicek says
Tom & Sharon,
Our deepest sympathy in the loss of Mike. Please know that you and Mike’s children are in our prayers as is the rest of the family.
Doug & Deb Kralicek
Scott and Ellen Bryson says
Maddie and Jake we are so very sorry and you’re in our prayers. We miss you as our neighbors and know that you are loved by so many and you have so many memories of the love in in your lives. Be well, be strong. Love you both
Teresa Lightbody says
When I heard that Mike Rice passed I prayed it wasn’t THE Mike Rice. The Mike Rice I had just talked to about 4 or 5 days ago…so joyful talking about his Fiance, Traci, and their plans. Talking about Jake and Madi and how I wouldn’t believe how much they have grown and talking about all the work he has done to his home. He was so full of life. I am heartbroken for the whole family. Tom and Sharon, having lost a son also I can tell you there will be joy in your life again. Life will be different but you will carry him in your heart always and simple little things will bring back memories that make you feel like he is right there with you. Kim, thank you as you are the reason I know this fine young man. He brings a smile to my face every time I think of him and Yes, I believe the part of his obituary saying he came out of the womb talking. Jake and Madi, you have to know how much he loved you both. It is probably one of the first things that will come to mind as I remember your Dad, how much he loved his children. I hope you feel that Love everyday for the rest of your lives. May God bless and comfort you all.
Sheila Martin says
We are so sad to learn this news. We knew of Mike through the Lunde family. Hoping the love of family, friends and community give some comfort to all who are hurting.
Tom, Sheila, Evan & Emma Martin
Sandy Martian says
Love and prayers Bill Sandy and family
Rem & Diane Mannix says
Tom, Sharon & Family;
Our hearts are so broken for you.
We’ve known Mike for a number of years & truly thought the world of him. He’s been out to our ranch a few times on “treasure hunts” as he called them. He really appreciated “antique” old junk & always had a plan for whatever he found. We always enjoyed his visits & he & Rem enjoyed the history behind some of his finds(they mostly enjoyed guy’s talk)
He was outstanding in his profession & went to bat for us when we needed him.
Mike, we’ll always remember you & we’ll be there for your parents,children, & brother any time they want us or need us.
Rem & Diane Mannix
Vicki Christensen Wolf says
Sharon,Tom and all of Mike’s loved ones, bless you with comfort and love as you try to negotiate this sudden change in your lives. Thank heaven for your family memories and treasured times together. May God watch over all of you.
Melanie Stocks says
May you find peace and comfort in your memories of Mike during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ray and Melanie Stocks
Kathy Dietz says
I knew Mike when I was an agent at Mountain West Farm Bureau Insurance. We had many talks, and what I remember most is what a dedicated family man he was. I admire how he adored you children and his entire family. He was so insightful and I’ve never met anyone who cared more about family , his work and friends. I was devastated to here of his loss & am thankful to have known Mike. Many prayers continue to go up for the family, and his dear fiancé & may all of us who call him a friend never forget how he inspired us!
Carolan Bunegar says
He was one of my favorite people. My family will all miss him. Definitely too young to go.
Dave & Teresa Sturm says
To: Madi & Jake Rice
We are so sorry for the loss of your father. He was so proud of both of you! Hang on to all the memories you shared throughout the years. Those can never be taken away from you.
To :Sharon & Tom Rice
There is nothing harder in life than losing a child whether they are a young child or an adult. We are very sorry for this devastating loss.
We pray for peace and healing to all of Mike’s family and friends.
Beth Susag says
So sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Amy Christensen says
Mike was a beautiful light that helped others with his warmth and kind heart. My deepest condolences.
Jackie Delaney says
My deepest sympathy to all family and friends of Mike. What a tremendous loss. Thoughts and love to you all. Take care of each other.
Dayna Colings Gilman says
Tom and Sharon
It has been many years since I have seen you, but just wanted to give you my deepest condolences.
Karolyne Redding says
Madi, Jake , Tom and Sharon
I first met Mike through Merry. What a gentleman he was. I loved hearing him talk about his Madi and Jake. His Facebook posts were like reading a book – his writing skills were awesome. I know he is leaving a hole in your hearts. Hugs and prayers for all of you.
Judy Heatwole says
We should all aspire to be this kind of brother, son and dad. Someone that left a lasting impression and a smile on everyone’s face. It is clear that no one will ever take the place of this dear man and friend. Thinking of the family and sending you my best.
Dave and Deb Corbett says
Our hearts are broken for Tom, Sharon, Nolan, Jake and Madi. Mike was a truly fun loving, joke telling blessing of a man. We where always thrilled when he came to visit Nolan here in Filer. He will be greatly missed . Our Love to you all & May our Father bless you all.
Susan Vance says
Sharon, Tom, Nolan, Jake, and Madi,
What a fitting celebration of Mike’s life.
May the Peace that passes all understanding be with you in Christ Jesus Our Savior.
Amen
Gail Fuglestad says
So very sorry for this devastating loss. No words can suffice. Love you and will hold you in my prayers and my heart
Gail Proulx Fuglestad
Bradford Martin says
Mike was a good friend and next door neighbor for many years. I will miss my friend and our chats over the fence.