Todd H. Chestnut

There was never a subject in which Todd wasn't interested. In fact, he probably would have been interested in what happened last Friday if it hadn't been happening to him.

He was born in Billings in 1951 to Wayne and Bernice Chestnut. He was an accomplished skier and raced the Downhill and Giant Slalom in events around Montana and Wyoming while in high school at Billings Senior. Following graduation, he attended Montana State University and earned degrees in both finance and film-making. While a student he married Dianna Spargur and had two children: Jessica and then Justin. His capstone student film was a national finalist in the Student Academy awards. After graduation, he worked briefly at KULR TV before starting a career as a stockbroker at Shearson Lehman Brothers in Billings. After several years at Shearson (and a divorce) he started a second career as a Hollywood film editor. He edited music videos for bands such as Paul McCartney and Wings, Extreme, Mark Knopfler and Ice Cube. He made a name for himself in nonfiction, working on many different television series for the Discovery Channel. One of his favorites was a project for comedian Bobcat Goldthwait, who kept him in stitches through the process. Eventually he transitioned out of editorial and focused his remaining years on screenwriting. He loved sailing, cars, the Oregon coast, skiing and a good cup of coffee. He has been described as a captivating, witty and hilarious person with an explosive laugh. Because he knew a little bit about almost everything talking to Todd was always lots of fun.

Following a sudden heart attack on Friday, he passed peacefully with family and friends by his side. He will be sorely missed by his mother Bernice; his brother Scott; his children Justin Chestnut and Jessica Richlen; his grandson Anders Richlen and his son-in-law Nelson Richlen; sister-in-law Carrie Chestnut and nephews Caleb and Wyatt Chestnut; his friends Russ and Evelyn (11) Noennig; his old roommates from college (M&MKTG) and his partner Shelly Ellison.

A memorial is scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 21, at First Presbyterian Church of Billings, 2420 13th St. West.

Donations in his memory can be made to Billings First Presbyterian Church or Family Service, www.familyservice.org.