Victor John Bickler

"Vic" died early morning, July 21st. He passed away at home, under the loving care of his children as he requested.

Vic, (sometimes known as Buckeye) was born in Linton, North Dakota, Dec. 12, 1919 to John Bickler and Magdalena (Kraft) Bickler, the first of five children. He graduated from Linton High School where he developed a deep interest in sports as the captain of both the basketball and football teams.

Vic and his siblings were orphaned when he was only 16. He was left with the responsibility to support them. Vic was taken in by his Grandpa, uncles and aunts from "down on the farm". He loved the farm!

After enlisting in the 3 C's, North Dakota National Guard and US Army for 5 long years, he was able to return to the farm. Vic met his bride in 1946 and was able to have the German wedding of his dreams. The musicians at their wedding were Lawrence Welk and John Schwab.

Vic planted his first crop only to have it totally hailed out one day before cutting. He then moved his young family to Billings, where he was employed as a meat-cutter while learning to build their first home. He did this under the guidance of his brother-in-law, Walt Marker. Vic then went on to become a builder of many homes, including for his children.

His farming experience was again evident in his retirement career. Vic trained and raced horses for 20 years. Traveling extensively and becoming a part of the Horse racing family.

His last retirement career was working at his son's Auto Shop. There he was valued and respected by another extended family. He felt honored to be considered one of them

Vic leaves behind his wife of 64 years Irene (Mattern) Bickler of Billings; one brother Bill Bickler of Spokane; three daughters, Bonnie Bickler of Billings, Beverly Volk of Spokane, and Beatrice Renner of Billings; one son, Bill Bickler of Billings; 9 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother James; sisters Angeline and Isabel (Marker); his youngest son Bucky; granddaughter Rebecca Schiering; and great-grandson Phillip.

Rather than monetary donations, the family is asking you to contribute your memories of Vic. Please e-mail your memories to babmontana@bresnan.net.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, July 23, at St. Thomas the Apostle Church. Cremation will follow mass and his remains will be interred at Holy Cross Cemetery.