James E. Crouch

James E. Crouch, 91, died at his home in Billings, on Sept. 8, 2024, son of Arnold and Ida (Rash) Crouch. He is survived by his wife Carolyn Crouch. He was born on Jan. 10, 1933, in Indiana.

He retired from the Government General Services Administration (GSA) in April 1988. He began his career with GSA in 1965 as a janitor and worked up to supervising the maintenance of the Battan Building. He served in the United States Air Force from 1952 through 1956. His primary station was Washington, D.C. He was also at Great Falls, Montana, for some training and really liked Montana. After he was discharged from the service, he moved to Missoula, where his brother lived. He had several jobs in Missoula, then moved to Billing.

He was preceded in death by his parents; seven brothers, Raymond, Albert, Donald, William, Robert and Ray; a sister, Della Handle; and a stepson, Michael Jencks.

Survivors include a granddaughter, Sarah Polesky; two great-granddaughters, Tyla and Melody. He is also survived by two stepdaughters, Michelle O’Malley and Suzanne Ennis; and stepson Mark Jencks. He is survived also by nine step-grandchildren and three step-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be determined at a later date. He will be cremated at Michelotti-Sawyers and burial will be at the Yellowstone National Veterans Cemetery in Laurel.

Donations may be made to the Masons, 126 E. Broadway, Suite A, Missoula, MT 59802; or Mount Olive Lutheran Church at 2336 St. Johns Ave., Billings, MT 59102.