Walter Bales, 84, died Aug. 17, 2008, of leukemia in his home near Birney, Mont.

Cremation has taken place and memorial services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Kane Funeral Home with Roger St. Clair officiating.

Born April 21, 1924, in Sheridan, he grew up in Parkman and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1942. He served in the Army from 1942-1949. He was a cowboy and ranch hand all his life.

He worked for the Diamond Cross Ranch in Birney for the past 23 years. He took care of his own herd of cattle and previously worked for Beckton Stock Farm, the Wrench Ranch, and the Double Rafter Ranch.

He is survived by his wife, Victoria; a son, Walt of Cohagen, Mont.; three daughters, Virginia Ellis of Parker, Colo., Pam Marshburn of Arvada, Colo., and Annette Hall of Sheridan; three stepchildren, Georgann Lee of Sheridan, Tori Dietz of Worland, and Gene Legerski of Las Vegas; three sisters, Ruth Nelson from Oregon, Shirley Philips from New Mexico, and Donna Baker from Laurel, Mont.; a brother, Robert of Billings; seven grandchildren: one great-grandson; and five step- grandchildren.

His first wife, Marianne, remained a special friend.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.

The Sheridan Press - August 19, 2008