Russell Dean Payne

Russell Dean Payne, 64 of Gallatin Gateway, passed August 2, 2016 at home with his ever-loving Cocker Spaniel, Nikki at his side. He was born May 16, 1952 in Merced, California (Castle Air Force Base) to Ralph M. and Bernice L. (Elliott) Payne. He was an active child, always busy learning and exploring, which continued throughout his entire life. He especially loved history and learning about his surroundings.

Russell was educated in Ventura, California. While he did not end up serving in the military, he did apply for service during the Vietnam War. Upon graduation from high school in 1970, he moved to Montana with his family. He returned to Ventura and after a few years met and married Kathleen K. Peterson. Together, they decided to move to Montana and make Gallatin Gateway their home. They had two children, however the marriage did eventually end in divorce. Russell was in the employ of Owenhouse Ace Hardware for nearly 35 years; most of that time as their “Pump Man”. He was a favorite of many farmers, ranchers and others who needed him to get their water wells back in working order (and many times better than they were before). Even below zero temperatures did not deter him from his duties. He was a perfectionist and a diligent repairer of many an item – he could fix just about anything! He loved working in a hardware store. He was faithful and believed in honest work.

Russell, his father, and brother had many adventures together. Russell was an avid hunter and fisherman and excelled in varmint reduction. He thrilled in the excitement of fireworks, model rockets, and the challenge of catching rattlesnakes. He knew the value of a sharp knife. Russell delighted in sharing and discussing his vast collection of music with his siblings and his friends. His favorite flowers were poppies, hollyhocks and the fragrant sweet pea. Bunnies and bird feeding/watching became a favorite pastime – even if some of the birds were pink flamingoes that his friends would move about his yard from time to time! He truly enjoyed driving his 1977 International Harvester Scout exploring Montana, during all seasons of the year, with his brother and friends.

Although Russell did survive tonsillar cancer and had other health concerns, he tried to remain positive and have faith. Russell is survived by both of his parents and brother John (Kerri) Payne of Gallatin Gateway; his sisters Brenda (Ron) McMichael of Bozeman and Tammy (Matt) Smith of Livingston; daughter Joni Payne of California and son Brian Payne of the Gallatin Valley; two nieces and two nephews; two great nieces and three great nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bozeman Deaconess Cancer Center at 931 Highland Blvd Park 3 Suite 3130 Bozeman, MT 59715.