Sherman Ekness

Sherman Ekness (88), a father, grandfather and great grandfather, died Wednesday April 24th, 2019. His wife Marion preceded him in death, January of 2007. A funeral service will be held May 18th at 1:00 PM at the Pondera Valley Lutheran Church, 325 6th Ave SW, Conrad MT to remember his life. Sherman was born to Julia and Idor Ekness in Ambrose North Dakota June 2, 1930. He grew up in and around Westby where his parents initially farmed and then bought the town grocery store. Sherman worked for his father in the grocery business while going to high school in Westby. After high school he attended college one year and then enlisted in the Navy. After basic training he was assigned to the aircraft carrier Oriskany where he served honorably during the Korean War. He met his wife Marion Fairbank who was born in Turner Montana while stationed in California. They entered into a marriage, before meeting his in laws while still being stationed in California, that lasted for over 50 years. Sherman graduated from the University of Montana, Missoula with a B.S. in business in 1956, with help from the GI bill.

Sherman worked for over 30 years in various department stores that took the family to Yakima, Washington; Green Bay, Wisconsin; Boise, Idaho; Great Falls, Montana and then to Havre, Montana. In Havre he purchased the Arctic Circle restaurant and ran that for 10 years before retiring. He was a member of the Rotary, Eagles, Elks Club and a member of the Veteran’s Honor Guard.  Sherman enjoyed fishing, hunting, dancing, playing cards, traveling and visiting with family and friends.  Sherman instilled a great sense of family and love into his sons.

Sherman is preceded in death by his wife Marion, brother Delmore, and his parents Julia and Idor. Sherman is survived by his brothers Allan, and Lyle and a sister Aurlie Samsel, five sons Paul Ekness (Heather), Jim Ekness (Maxine), Steve Ekness (Suzi), Wesley Ekness (Cathy), and David Ekness (Heather).  Grandchildren include Jessica, Christine, Kelsey, Jamie, Molly, Jesse, Natalia, Thayne, Adam, Amanda, Amber, Faith and Grace. Great grandchildren are Alec, Nella, Evelyn, Remington, Ruger, Colt, Barrett, Aryanna, Abigail, Addison, and Avery.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Pondera Heath Care Foundation, P.O. Box 802, Conrad, MT 59425.