Stanley Max Hamilton

Stanley Max Hamilton - Born March 29, 1941 to Lloyd and Pearl (Miller) Hamilton, Stanley Max Hamilton grew up on a farm outside Chinook, Montana, the oldest of six children. A well-rounded education was of paramount importance in the rural Hamilton household, so when young Stan was of age, his parents sent him to live in town with family to attend Chinook High School. He went on to graduate from Montana State University (Bozeman) with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and served two years in the United States Coast and Geodetic Survey — a fateful decision that eventually led him to Kansas City, Missouri where he met Martha, his wife of nearly 50 years. The bulk of his career was spent in Bozeman with the Natural Resource Conservation Service. He loved his job and his effort matched his love.

Stan was many things. Farmer’s son. Engineer. Conservationist. Amateur Photographer. Outdoorsman. The role he cherished above all, however, was Family Man.

Recalling his own parents’ values, he chose to raise his five children in Bozeman, not just for the promise of plentiful outdoor activities, but to give each child the opportunity to attend MSU. Extremely active, taking full advantage of all the Gallatin Valley has to offer, it’s only fitting that his life ended where he found great joy. Stan died instantly in an ATV accident in the mountains on August 16, 2017.

Stan is survived by his wife, Martha, his children Cheryl (Will) Shelhamer, Steve (Kate) Hamilton, Curt (Molly) Hamilton, Jim Hamilton, and Christina Hamilton; grandchildren Willy and Cassy Shelhamer; Max, Charlie, and Gus Hamilton; Tyke and Nola Hamilton; and siblings Gloria (Bill) Brinkman, Carol (Ron) Blake, Aaron (Stacey) Hamilton; Miles (Lynne) Hamilton, Brian (Sue) Hamilton; sibling-in-law John (Julitta) Langle; and many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank the first responders Jackson Hudson, Gallatin County Sheriff's Search and Rescue, REACH Air Medical and Two Bear Air.



Memorials may be made in Stan's name to Gallatin County Sheriff's Search and Rescue or a charity of choice.



A gathering to remember will be held 11:00 AM, Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at the Dahl Funeral and Cremation Service Tribute Center, with a reception immediately following.