Keith Vermandel

Keith Eldon Vermandel, 63, of Pompeys Pillar, Mt, passed away on October 30,2015. No words can explain the loss we feel and our lives will never be the same without our Husband, Dad and Brother. He was the rock in his family's life. Keith was born on December 8, 1951 to Eldon and Bethene Vermandel. He met the love of his life Penny Sorlie and they married in 1992. They built a wonderful life together and he always said they were soul mates. When Colton K. “Bub” was born, you couldn't find a prouder Dad than Keith. This was tested when Bub drove through the garage door and hit the pickup. Keith was so upset until Bub told him you could look towards Arizona and see where this big smoke cloud had erupted. Which stopped him for a minute then he laughed. Keith had a quick temper and no nonsense attitude. If you over looked this he had the biggest heart and was the kindest man you would ever meet. Keith did some odd jobs, before he found his calling driving truck. He took great pride in the truck he was driving and was so proud that he had driven 42 years. This past year his wife joined him on the road. They had some wonderful times running team, which ended way too soon with the diagnosis of A.L.S. (Lou Gehrig's) in August. Penny never left his side after this diagnosis. Keith loved ice cream, it was one of the few things he could still enjoy, and a few days before his passing he was reveling in a Dairy Queen sundae. He drove truck for John Corcoran, Eddie Corcoran, Raymond Corcoran, RL Bertolino and others, but spent most of his driving career with Steve Nelson Trucking. Keith is survived by his wife, Penny; son, Colton; weekend daughter, Ember Sian; sisters, Kathy (Gary) Gehring and Peggy (Larry) Brown; Uncle Jack Halverson; Aunt Shirley (Harold) Turner; Mother-in-law, Vera Sorlie; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon and Bethene Vermandel, nephew, Jacob Brown and Father-in-law, Darrold Sorlie. The family would like to Thank Dr. Arbogast, Rocky Mountain Hospice, his nurse Jody and especially Steve Nelson for his support and help through this difficult time in Keith's life. We would also like to thank everyone who called, brought food and supported him. Per Keith's wishes there will be no funeral services. A celebration of Keith's life will be held from 1-4 on Friday at Homesteaders Hall, 748 Railroad Hwy, Huntley, MT. His ashes will be spread on Sharphead Ridge on the Vermandel Ranch at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the A.L.S. Foundation or charity of one's choice.