Alfred Ben (Buck) Muri, age 93 of Miles City, was called home on August 21st, 2020.
On July 19, 1927, a son was born to Rasmus and Nellie (Johnson) Muri on their homestead in Cartersville, MT. Alfred Ben (Buck) Muri was the sixth born of seven boys and two girls. He attended grade school in Cartersville and spent his high school years in Miles City. In 1944, Buck graduated from Custer County High School in three years so he could join the Merchant Marines. He spent the next two years serving his country and sailing around the world.
When he returned from the war, Buck reunited with the love of his life, his soul mate, Dannetta “Dannie” Lockie. Their marriage in Forsyth, on June 11th, 1950, became the third union between a Muri brother and a Lockie sister. Buck’s brothers, Andy and Bob, married Dannie’s sisters, Lorraine and Jean, fostering a very unique family dynamic. He always told his mother-in-law, she needed to have more girls because he still had a few brothers left.
Buck and Dannie spent their early years together in Cartersville, Montana where they owned and managed the Cartersville Store and Bar. During this time, the couple started their family and Kathy and Ron were born. In 1957, they moved to Miles City where they welcomed their last two children, Jeff and Tami. Throughout these years, and the ones to come, the house Buck and Dannie built together was home to many, and they were parents to more than only their children.
The couple started their own business, Eastern Brokerage Service, selling farm and ranch real estate in 1968. During the 1990’s, Buck also ventured into commercial real estate with his partners, owning and developing, Rebco Corp., The River Bend Estates, and The Meadows commercial subdivision. Buck and Dannie worked side-by-side for 32 years until their retirement in 2000.
Even when just relaxing in his recliner at home, Buck’s mind was never idle. He was always thinking about how to make something better and conjuring up new inventions. Although most of his inventions were never realized, on November 5, 2019, with the help of his grandson Jase, Buck received his first official patent for “The Slice-O-Meter.”
From his own athletic achievements, to following those of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, sports played a large part of Buck’s life. The summers of 1943 and 1944 were spent playing American Legion baseball. Buck was the captain of the 1944 Miles City team that defeated the reigning World Champions from Minneapolis, Minnesota with a score of 1 to 0 at Denton Field. Before severely breaking his ankle in the winter of 1948, Buck was presented with the opportunity to play pro baseball for the Billings Mustangs. Springs and falls brought the Madison River fishing trip for the Muri boys. Wonderful memories were made on the semi-annual trip that began with Buck’s Dad and brothers, and eventually developed into a 70-year tradition that included Buck’s sons, sons-in-law, grandsons, and other various family members. His other past times included bowling, gardening, and traveling.
Buck and Dannie were very involved in their children’s and grandchildren’s lives. Splitting their time between Billings and Miles City, the duo rarely missed a concert, music festival, play, dance recital, swim meet, basketball, football, soccer, volleyball, tennis, baseball, bowling, golf or track and field event. When spare time allowed, Buck and Dannie enjoyed traveling the U.S., visiting friends and family, and exploring new sights. However, watching the waves on the beach of Morro Bay together was one of their favorite things to do.
We have lost the Patriarch of our family and will feel his absence for a long time. As one friend said, “He was a giant of a man”, large not only in stature but in influence. He was a man of integrity, true-to-his-word; he was generous, always aware of those less fortunate; he had a great sense of humor and wit, coining so many “Buck-isms” the grandchildren have lists. Although he will be intensely missed, we will all sleep peacefully knowing he has equipped us well to continue his legacy of kindness and generosity.
Buck is survived by four children – Kathy (Laurie) Boutelle of Miles City, Ron Muri of Bozeman, Jeff (Tammy) Muri of Billings, Tami (Doug) Askin of Miles City; eight grandchildren – Shannon (Mac) Fogelsong, Sheila (Kelly) Strobel, Nathan Muri, Callie (Paul) Halstead, Jase Muri, Danielle (Michael) Rider, Amanda (Hayden) Kalfell, and Brian Askin; six great-grandchildren – Mitchell Fogelsong, Brek Strobel, Walker Halstead, Reese Rider, Paige Rider, and Emmerson Kalfell; sister – Marie Ansoms; sisters-in-law – Joyce Muri, Anita Muri and Helen Lockie Martin; brother-in-law – Bill Leischner; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is also survived by his special family friends – Cynthia ‘Cyn Fooie’ Vergine Mulvaney, Bryan Holmen, Sharon Hope, Audrey Haumschild, Carey Swenson, and the Patch Family.
Buck was welcomed home by his parents; wife of 65 years, Dannie; infant son, Alfred Ben Jr.; sister, Anna Mae Leischner; brothers, Bill (Virginia) Muri, Jim (Alice) Muri, Bob (Jean) Muri, Andy (Lorraine) Muri, Karl Muri and Pete Muri; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Dan and Blanche Lockie; and brother-in-law, Wallace Lockie.
Family will receive friends on Thursday, September 3, 2020 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 4, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at Grace Bible Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the family lot of the Custer County Cemetery with full military honors. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Department of Montana American Legion Baseball Program Miles City Chapter, or to the Miles City Empty Stockings Program.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday September 3, 2020
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Friday September 4, 2020
Grace Bible Church
3505 Stower St
Miles City, Montana 59301
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Friday September 4, 2020
Custer County Cemetery
Cemetery Rd.
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday September 3, 2020
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Friday September 4, 2020
Grace Bible Church
3505 Stower St
Miles City, Montana 59301
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Friday September 4, 2020
Custer County Cemetery
Cemetery Rd.
Miles City, Montana 59301
Share
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
To all of Buck & Dani’s kids, as well as all the Muri family-
I am so very sorry to hear of Buck’s passing. May all the memories you made together comfort you now and in the days ahead. He was a great person.
Dale Barta says
To Kathy, Tami, Ron & Jeff and the Muri Family. Sorry to hear of your loss. Buck was a great neighbor and great person. Keep the memories with you as I know you have many.
Audrey Haumschild &Greg Blind says
Biggest Hugs are with you all , your Dad was one of the best and sweetest people . My heart breaks for yous . I know Buck is with his Danny and happy now. RIP Buck Love you and going to miss our visits. They don’t make many like you .
Denise Harvey says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you! Buck has left a wonderful legacy.
Denise and Jay Harvey
Pam (Moths) Nisley says
So saddened to hear of this mans passing…….to Jeff my classmate, I am so sorry. Knowing how hard the loss of your dear mom was, and now your dad~ know that my prayer is for all of you to understand and embrace the love that is offered to us all through Jesus. I truly care, and will keep all of you lifted up~
Tracy Bertrand says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Muri family. Buck was an incredible man, that raised a great family. Truly one of the greatest, from “The Greatest Generation”, and will be missed by all. God Bless.
Kevin and Sheila Krausz says
Lifting you all up in prayer during this difficult time. Buck will be missed in the neighborhood.
Tim Burdett says
Thoughts and prayers from the Burdett’s.
Many great memories.
Jana Mueller says
My thoughts and prayers are with Buck’s family.
Marvin and Lynne Brush says
So sorry to hear this, thinking of you all.
Carolyn Kimball says
I am truly sorry to hear of your loss.Your father lived a long and rewarding life and accomplished so much in his lifetime. He will be long remembered as a hard-working intelligent and loving man.
Find comfort in all those who knew and loved him.
Diane Welbes says
Sorry to hear about your loss. May it comfort you to know that I care.
Sharon Bixler Oftedal says
Buck was the very first person to call me after my dad died. His words of respect for my father, Buck’s kindness and compassion have been something I’ll never ever forget. His family and many friends will never forget him either, and those are the memories that carry us all through times like this. My thoughts are with you.
Mark Sweeney says
The Sweeney family was saddened to hear of Bucks passing. He was a great community supporter and raised a wonderful family. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kathy, Ron, Jeff and Tami. We were all lucky to have known Buck and I personally am grateful to have had opportunity to visit with him a couple of years ago. He was a great friend of our Dads. Rest easy Buck, you earned it.
Cindy and Dale Berg says
Our hearts go out to all of Bucks family at this very sad time. Keep close all your wonderful memories! Keeping you in our prayers!
Maureen Larson says
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Buck’s family during this difficult time.
Ron C Askin says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Celeste and Ron Askin
Curtis Fillafer says
Ron, Jeff, Kathy, and Tami and family. I am so sorry for the loss of Al (Buck.) My prayers and deepest sympathy are with all of you.
Mary Notbohm says
To all of Buck’s family, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Margaret and Jim Joyce says
We are very sorry to hear of Buck’s passing. You are in our prayers.
Janet Klein says
Thoughts and prayers going out to the Muri family during this difficult time. Please know the legacy that Buck left will continue for years in Miles City….he was a wonderful man who raised a beautiful family with the standards he was instilled with in his life. May your memories sustain you in your time of grieving. Janet Klein
Randy and Marlene Boutelle says
So very sorry for your loss.
Pam Rogge says
My condolences to Buck’s family and loved ones. My prayers are with them now and in the days ahead. Cherish the memories!
Sandy Anderson says
I’m so sorry for your loss. I so loved visiting with your folks. I’ll keep all the family in my prayers. I have such good memories of your Dad and Mom. Love to you all always.
Mary Ann Liles says
Buck and I shared a birthday and that’s how I came to know him when we moved back to Miles City in the early ’90s. He was a clever, intelligent man who was interesting to visit with and we send our sincere sympathies on your loss.
Mary Ann & Jim Liles
Beth Ann and Doug Wiedeman says
Sending prayers for the Muri family
Cori Hanel Brubaker says
So sorry to hear of Buck’s passing.
David Harasymczuk says
To Ron, Jeff, Kathy, Tami and the whole Muri family,
Sorry to hear of Buck’s passing.
He was definitely a strong community pillar and one of the nicest gentleman ever.
You have much to be proud of.
Bryan Holmen family says
We are so sorry to hear of Buck. The Muri family has been hit hard again. He was a wonderful, giving man.
Jim and Annalise Willson says
Sorry to hear about Buck He was a long time friend of My Dad. Kathy you may have to remind Laurie to do the summer fallow. R.I.P. Buck
Jim and Annalise Willson
Doug and Diane Ellingson says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family!
Eugene Bankey says
Sending your family our condolences with our thoughts and prayers with memories of 47 years being part of your neighborhood and conversations
Sonja Crocker says
Thinking of you at this difficult time and wishing you the healing power of many beautiful memories.
Anita Scheeler says
Tami, Kathy, Ron and Jeff, and all of yourfamily:
We are so sorry to hear of your loss of your wonderful father. He was always so warm and kind. Our prayers are with you all!
Jim and Anita Scheeler
Tom & Kathy Strub says
Kathy my sincere sympathies. Praying for you all.
B Dean Holmes says
Thanks Buck for all you sage advice to a kid that ended up being Mayor of Miles City. Your community envolvement espcially in sports. Blessings to the family.
Ed and Melva Curnan says
Muti family, we are so sorry to hear of your fathers passing. Our thoughts and prayers for your dad and all of you.
Sandy McFarland Hays says
Sending prayers and condolences to all during this difficult time.
Clara Jo says
To all the Muri family.. Your all in my thoughts and prayers. May all your wonderful memories fill your hearts on those tough days. Good Bless
Clara Jo says
To all the Muri family.. Your all in my thoughts and prayers. May all your wonderful memories fill your hearts on those tough days. God Bless
Kim Stanton says
Dear Families,
Miles City has lost another one of the greats! Men like Buck and his family made eastern Montana the wonderful place that it is today. I know you all have fond and treasured memories of your dad and grandpa to hold close. He was a certainly a special person who is highly esteemed by so many.
Peace, prayers for comfort and our sympathy coming your way.
With our heartfelt condolences,
Kim, Kyle, Kasey and Christina Stanton
Fred Anderson says
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Buck was an outstanding person who had a very positive impact on countless people. He will be missed but not forgotten.
Fred and Vicky Anderson
Shorty and Judy Brush says
So sorry for your loss Buck was one of a kind and will missed dearly praying for God to give each of your the strength now and in the days to come
Ginger Huckins says
I’m so sorry for the loss of Buck. Have many memories of Buck and K talking sports,football, baseball basketball, it didn’t matter. They love the all sports. He will be greatly missed.
Shelley Boutelle says
Kathy, Ron, Jeff and Tami – I can’t express how sad I am to hear of Buck’s passing at an already difficult time of grieving. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Shelley
Randy and Kathi (Rooney) Pfeifle says
Kathy, Laurie and family. I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you during this difficult time and keeping you in my prayers.
Patti (Green) Ireland says
Kathy and family, I’m so sorry for the loss of your dad. I know you are happy that he’s back together with your mom, but it’s still so hard to be separated from someone you love so much. I pray that the Lord will wrap you all in His arms and comfort you in your grief.
Patti (Green) Ireland
Bill and Lana Sweeney says
Kathy, Ron, Jeff, Tami and family: We were so, so sorry to learn of Buck’s passing. He was truly a joy to be around, such a great laugh and smile. No doubt his family was always priority #1 – – and now his life lessons, passion, compassion and good cheer will most surely live on through all of you.
Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you grieve the loss of the Muri Patriarch. We will raise a toast here in his honor tonight, celebrating a life so very well lived. RIP Buck – you will be missed!
God bless,
Lana and Bill
Rick and Joann Powell says
We are so sorry to hear about Buck. He was a great man with a great family.
Bill and Jody Wallick says
We are so sorry for your loss. We always enjoyed visiting with Buck and especially listening to his dry wit.
Jim Morton says
I have many great memories growing up in the neighborhood and spending time at the Muri home. Buck was a great person, community leader and someone I have always admired. He will be greatly missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.
Cynthia (Vergine) Mulvaney says
What an honor it is to be included in the obituary of the wonderful man, Buck Muri. When I was fourteen, in need of a loving home, Buck and Dannie welcomed me into the family. In the year I lived with my dear friend Kathy, and Ron, Jeff, and little Tami, I experienced all the love, laughter and fun of a close knit family. Buck truly lived the honorable example of a loving family man. His entire family will miss him greatly. While the sorrow of his passing is ours, his joy is now abundant rejoining his treasured loved ones in spirit. Thank you, Buck, for being such an important part of my life. My sincere sympathy to all the family and friends. Love, Cynthia (Vergine) Mulvaney…… Cyn Fooie
Voni Tally says
We are so very sorry for your loss & pray for continued comfort! Voni & Scott Tally
Kathy Ugrin says
Dear Kathy, Ron, Jeff and Tami,
So sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing. I want you to know you and your familes are in my thoughts and prayers.
Your Dad was one of those caring people who touched the life’s many. He truely will be missed.
Love,
Kathy (Stewart) Ugrin
Mike Thatcher says
Heartfelt thoughts and prayers for all of the Muri family!!!Sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing.
glen beecher says
sorry to hear about Buck he was a very good man
Pete Stabio says
So sorry to hear of Buck’s passing. He had a very interesting and varied life and left a wonderful legacy. I so enjoyed teaching his children and watching them succeed in school activities. Buck’s influence extended throughout all of eastern Montana and beyond,
Doug Morgan says
Kathy, Ron, Jeff and Tami, I am so sorry for the passing of Buck.
Growing up with all of you and spending many days in your home, Buck and Dannie were
some of my favorite people and always had solid advice for any situation and showed
unconditional love for everyone.
I have always held those wonderful memories close to me.
Blessings and comfort to your family in this time.
Garth Sleight says
First off, my sincerest condolences go to Buck’s many, many family members. When I think of Buck Muri, I think of the plot of land next to his house (and Kathy and Laurie’s house) that he would plow up multiple times every summer to keep the weeds down. For about 20 years I was in charge of mowing the church lawn next to Kathy and Laurie’s house. With all of the grass I was picking up, I needed a convenient place to put it. Buck graciously allowed me to dump the grass on his lot, provided I spread it out thoroughly. The time or two I did not spread it out well enough, he kindly reminded me to do so. The passing of Buck Muri leaves a big gap in the history of Miles City, but his legacy will live on through his family. All my best to the family at this time of grieving.
Valerie Rowen says
Dear Kathy, Ron, Jeff & Tami,
I was saddened to hear of Buck’s passing. I really enjoyed his spirit, positive attitude & humor when he was under my care.
My prayers & thoughts are with you all.
Love,
Valerie Rowen
Loree Jeffers says
Tami, Kathy, Ron, Jeff, and families,
I’m so sad to hear about your Dad. I have lots of fond memories from kindergarten through high school spending time at the Muri’s house. Your parents were so welcoming and treated everyone as family.
Continue to keep all those wonderful memories alive, as I know you will. My prayers are with you!
Lots of love,
Rob Shipley says
It seems at times one cannot say it enough. I think about this often, I guess in a proper way, about all the time.
The people who live in Montana, so far, so wide, so handsome; actually The Big Sky; are such a special and wonderful section of the human family.
I have come to the resolve………………we live among legends and are all blessed to be the children of legends.
Buck and Danny Muri lived such precious and wonderful lives. Personally, I can hardly wait to live with them again in Heaven for all of eternity.
All my love, “Ship”
Earl and Jean Kiddie says
Dear Muri Family,
We were so very sorry to learn of Buck’s death. We got to know him when we were neighbors of Doug and Tami’s on Merriam Ave. He and Dani were always so nice to all of us. He and Dani are back together again! You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Love, Earl, Jean, Matt, and Megan Kiddie