Thomas Eliason Corbett

Thomas E. Corbett went to his eternal home on December 19, 2010, just nine months after his wife died in March. He died from a sudden illness at the age of 78.

Tom was born on February 26, 1932 in Sims, Montana. He was the youngest of 11 children. He was raised on the family ranch near Cascade, MT. It was during his high school years that he met his future wife, Hattie. After high school, he enlisted in the Air Force and, during a furlough, came home and married. They moved to California while he was in the Air Force. After his discharge, Tom took a job as a meat cutter in Shelby, Montana.

Their first child was born in Shelby and just a short time later, he was transferred to Red Lodge. Their second child was born here. Then, another transfer to Great Falls and a third child was born. Tom and the family then moved to Helena when he took a meat cutting position with Buttreys. This move proved to be permanent and they settled down and had two more children.

Tom was a great boss and friend. He loved life and it showed by the number of friends and family that was always welcome at his home. Tom played in a local band and had a wonderful time entertaining. His love of music has been passed down to the current and future generations.

Many great memories were created out at the family cabin on Canyon Ferry. All were welcome. To this day, Tom’s kids tell stories and share laughs when talking about the great times at the lake.

Tom retired from Buttreys after 30 years of service. He spent his time taking trips with his wife, camping, playing golf whenever possible, woodworking, and working side-by-side with his wife in the gardens they planned and planted, laughing with friends and family on the back porch, and generally enjoying life. His yard was always the envy of all who came by. Tom trimmed and moved and planted and Hattie directed the planting of flower beds and flower pots.

When Hattie’s failing health stopped the strenuous activities, he was happy to take over the care of his wife and stunned us all by learning to cook (and cook well), and to take care of the house.

Tom is survived by his five children; daughter, Kathy Eyler; son, Danny, and daughter-in-law, Theresa Corbett; son, Dennis, and daughter-in-law, Susanne Corbett; daughter, Colleen, and son-in-law, Dave Gould; and youngest daughter, Yvonne Powers. He will be missed by his 14 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; as well as his three sisters in the Cascade, Montana area. He was preceded in death by his wife, Hattie, a grandson, Bobby, son-in-law, Jim Eyler, and several brothers and sisters.

In one of Tom’s last conversations with the kids this week, he stated that he had no regrets about his life and how proud he was of his children and they way they turned out. Tom felt that his life’s chores were over and it was time . . . Goodbye Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa. You will always be a part of our lives.

Viewing hours will be from noon to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 22nd at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home and also beginning at noon Thursday, December 23rd in the Relief Society Room at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1260 Otter Road with funeral services to be at 1:00 p.m. Burial with military honors and dedication of the grave will be at Montana State Veterans Cemetery Fort Harrison. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.aswfuneralhome.com.

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