Albert J. Degenhart

Albert J. Degenhart, 88, of Billings, passed away peacefully at Butterfly Homes on Wednesday, April 5, 2017. He was born on June 21, 1928, in Billings, the son of Adam and Helen Degenhart. He grew up in Billings with his four sisters and four brothers.

Bert grew up working on the family farm, and developed a strong work ethic that was always with him. He loved the land he grew up on and was later able to purchase part of it, on which he built his home and his own farm, where he lived until he passed.

Bert met Betty Nagel at a dance in their teenage years. They were married in Billings on Oct. 11, 1947. They raised three sons together. They spent as much time as possible with family and taking the boys hunting, camping and fishing.

Bert went on to become a founder and eventually the sole owner/operator of Billings Machine and Welding Inc., which has been in existence for over 70 years. All three of his sons took over the business after he retired.

Bert spent much of his time outside on the tractor, irrigating or taking care of his animals. He and Betty were loving grandparents, and enjoyed time with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bowling, playing cards and taking trips occupied their time as well.

Bert was a longtime member of St. Bernard's Parish, served as Eucharistic Minister and was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Bert is survived by his son, Richard (granddaughter Beth); his son, Michael and Kathy (grandchildren Andrea and Jonathon); his son, Steven and Linda (grandchildren Erin and Keely); honorary granddaughter Becky McCallister; and several great-grandchildren; as well as his brother, Roy and Norma Degenhart; his sister, Beverly Martin; and his brother, Dan Degenhart.

The family sends a special thank you to the staff at Butterfly Homes and his longtime friend, Woody Jensen, for the loving care of our Bert.

Memorial Mass will be at 11 a.m. Monday, April 10, at St. Bernard's Parish, 226 Wicks Lane, followed by a luncheon at the church and burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Please send memorials to St. Bernard's Parish and Butterfly Homes, 72 Lily Valley Circle, Billings, MT 59105, where a memorial fund has been established in Bert's name.