He died Aug. 18, 2004, at the VA Medical Center in Sheridan.

Born Oct. 27, 1917, in Sheridan, he was the son of Paul and Anna (Rucki) Byrtus. He grew up and graduated high school in Sheridan. He was attending Parks Business College in Denver, Colo. when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force.

While stationed in Washington, D.C., he met Ethel Beazley of Bowling Green, Va., and they were married May 21, 1944. He was released from duty in March of 1946.

After he earned an accounting degree from Denver University, he return to Sheridan.

He was called to active duty during the Korean War and served from 1950 until 1952.

The family returned to Sheridan and he received his CPA certificate in 1954, practicing accounting until his retirement.

Serving a number of business organizations, he was on the Board of Directors of the Wyoming Certified Public Accountants, as board member and president, and he was honored for 40 years with the A.I.C.P.A. He was a life member of the Elks Lodge No. 520, the Knights of Columbus, Disabled American Veterans, American Legion and other organizations.

Survivors include his wife; his sons, Paul Byrtus, Robert Byrtus and Donald Byrtus; his daughters, Jeanette Mackey and Patricia Clabaugh; two sisters, Anne Byrtus and Stella Withrow; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two sons, two sisters and two brothers.

Memorials in his honor can be made to Hospice of the Big Horns, 1401 Fifth St., Sheridan, or Holy Name School Foundation, 9 S. Connor, Sheridan, WY 82801