Leopold Hodnik

Leo V. Hodnik passed away June 25, 2015, surrounded by family and friends. Leo was born in Bearcreek on April 11, 1924. He was the son of John and Apolonia Nagoda Hodnik, and grew up in Bearcreek and Scotch Coulee. He enjoyed Montana's great outdoors, hunting, fishing and gardening. As a young man, Leo worked in the coal mines of Bearcreek and the gold mines around Cooke City. As a heavy equipment operator, he worked construction jobs across Montana. He was a member of Local 400 for over 50 years, many with Bill Hash, Midland Materials, and Long Construction in Billings and Colstrip. Leo married Myrna Mae (Mitzi) Whitmore in 1954, and they had three children. Leo is survived by his sons Jim and Joe, daughter Debra, sister-in-law Elizabeth (Henry), nephew John, niece Pauline Hutchison, brother-in-law Bill (Mardi) Whitmore, longtime friend Marianne Hockema, and many other loving relatives and friends. Leo was preceded in death by his wife Mitzi in 1967, his parents Apolonia and John, brother John in the Smith Mine explosion, sister Angelina Hodnik Matthews, aunt Angela Nagoda, brothers Joseph and Henry, and nephew Henry Charles. The family wishes to thank the kind people of the Billing Clinic who took good care of Dad. They especially wish to thank the caring people of the Billing Clinic TCU, and his special friend Lisa. Arrangements are in the care of Dahl Funeral Chapel. Cremation has taken place, and a graveside service is planned for Leo at Bearcreek Cemetery at a later date. Memories may be shared with the family at www.dahlfuneralchapel.com. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Bearcreek Cemetery fund. Rest in peace Dad; we love and miss you.