Arthur Philip Pluhar, born July 2nd 1924, passed peacefully from this world into the arms of his Lord and his beloved sweetheart Inez on October 29, 2019 at the age of 95. His family takes great solace in knowing he is surrounded by those who have passed on before him and the love and comfort of his Savior.
Art was born to William and Mary (Uherka) Pluhar on the banks of the Skunk-Arroyo Creek ten miles northeast of Cohagen, Montana. His father immigrated to the United States in 1910 from Russia with his family to start a business, while his mother grew up in South Dakota of Czech descendants. Art talked fondly of his childhood growing up with his three brothers and three sisters near Cohagen and Angela – farming, playing baseball, doing chores, school activities and, his least favorite of all, helping with the dishes.
For his lower grades, Art attended the Skunk Arroyo school in Cohagen, a one room schoolhouse located less than half a mile from his home. For high school he attended Cohagen High School and graduated in 1942. After graduation, Art completed radio training in Helena, Montana before entering the Army Air Force in June of 1943. After 18 months of strenuous training he earned his multi-engine wings and went on to Laurinburg-Maxton Army Air Base in North Carolina. There he trained extensively in advanced glider techniques as well as learned to fly C-47s (DC-3) to tow and retrieve gliders that were used in World War II. Two weeks before his unit was to be deployed overseas the Germans surrendered thus signaling the end of the War. In 1946 he was honorably discharged with a Captain’s rating and was a pilot in the reserves until 1971.
After he returned home, Art taught elementary education in rural schools around Montana for twelve years starting in 1950. In the summers he also attended Miles Community College in Miles City and Eastern Montana College in Billings using his GI bill. In 1962, his final year of teaching, he taught twenty-three 5th and 6th graders at the Jordan Elementary School. Despite the cramped quarters he said that year was a great experience all around. Art always spoke highly of his days teaching in rural Montana and was friends with many of his former students who still lived around the area.
On June 21st, 1953 Art married his beautiful bride Inez Haglof whom he had met through his teaching friend Otto Neuhardt. They planned to honeymoon by driving to Alaska but got as far as Canada and decided that was enough. Together they raised three boys and two girls as well as ran the Haglof Ranch in Rock Springs. Art passed down to his children the love of working hard and playing hard. There were always chores to be done, animals that needed care, farming, cooking, and cleaning; but there were lots of community gatherings, church events, basketball games, rodeos and 4H meetings to attend. Work never felt like work because they were doing it together. Art and Inez instilled in their children a devout faith in God, not by words but by deeds as they sacrificially served others. Their service in their church and their community was second to none. They were always willing to lend a hand to those who needed it. Art had impeccable character and his standards for himself and others were high.
Starting in 1955, Art also began spraying crops during the growing season in a 1949 135hp Super Cub he co-owned with his brothers Willie and Leonard. They had a grand old time covering acres in Garfield, McCone, and Rosebud Counties. Later on, he also flew a Piper Pawnee for Lawrence Artz. From Sidney to Forsyth and up and down the Yellowstone Valley a fun time was had by all. Art liked to say that after 22 years of aerial spraying he decided the only flying he’d do from then on was “off the handle’.
Art was involved in many activities throughout the years. He and Inez were 4-H leaders and Community Hall Officers for many years. He was a Boy Scout leader, on the Fair Board, EMI Board, Garfield Co Selective Service, and Secretary-Treasurer of Rock Springs Angela Trinity Lutheran Church for over 50 years just to name a few. He was also a lifetime member of the Eagles as well as the American Legion. When REA became available in southeastern Montana, he was able to help wire his and his neighbor’s buildings – a big need at the time. He could always be found around a horseshoe pit or a card table playing pinochle or dammit with friends and family alike. Art loved dancing, especially the polka. He could rip up a dance floor like no other! He attended many community dances around the county, square dancing with Inez and sharing his love of music with his children. He also liked to keep busy with various projects around the home or ranch and complete the never-ending “Honey Do” list Inez had for him. Art was always quick witted, quick to laugh, and – forever a teacher at heart – always willing to teach someone a new way of doing things.
Art’s smile beamed especially bright for his grandchildren, and later on, his great grandchildren. He and Inez frequently traveled to Texas and Alaska and all around Montana for sporting events, graduations, and vacations with family. Always there with an encouraging word, a hug, and a used hankie for tears, Art’s stories and his laugh will be greatly missed.
After the passing of his beloved Inez, Art was able to stay in his home on the ranch for a year lovingly cared for by granddaughter Jessica. The highlight of their time together was a trip to Washington DC to participate in the Honor Flight program for World War II veterans. He appreciated seeing the memorials around the city and hearing the stories of other veterans in attendance.
In March of 2018, Art moved to Highgate Senior Living in Billings and later on Lasting Legacy in the Heights. He enjoyed having visitors and chatting with the staff and residents, even going out and about on the town to have lunch or a group scenic drive every now and then. He was given exceptional care and love by his caregivers who made sure he was comfortable in his new home, of which his family will be forever grateful.
The last thing Art said to his wife of 63 years shortly before she passed was “I love you, dear. We had a good life. Raised a good family.” I guess we can’t sum it up any better than that. Have a safe trip home, Dad and Grandpa. We’ll sure miss you down here.
Art is survived by his five children: Dennis (Jane Dickson) Pluhar of Rock Springs; Diana (Lloyd) Ruis of Billings; Darwin (Jennifer Jenkins) Pluhar of Canyon, Texas; Debbie (Jim) French of Pompeys Pillar; and Darrin Pluhar of Ekalaka and Rapid City, South Dakota. His grandchildren: Jessica Ruis, Jennifer (Hill) Anderson, Joe (Lauren) Pluhar, Janelle (Steven) Grimes, Marshall Pluhar, Zane Pluhar, Logan Pluhar, Ben (fiancé Jessica Johnson) French, Elizabeth French, and Janisse Ruis. His great grandchildren: Adam Pluhar and Penelope Pluhar.
Art is preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary Pluhar, his siblings Edward (Sylvia) Pluhar, Elsie (Walter) Herndon, Sylvia (Floyd) Lilienthal, William (Darlene) Pluhar, Mayme (John) Bye, Leonard (Betty) Pluhar, his wife Inez (Haglof) Pluhar, his grandson Mark Pluhar (Darwin and Jenny), and his granddaughter Rachel Pluhar (Dennis and Jane).
Visitation will begin on Tuesday, November 5th 2019 at 1:00pm at Stevenson & Sons Funeral with family receiving friends from 4:00-6:00pm followed by a celebration of life at 6:00pm. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 6th at 10:00am at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Eastern Montana State Veteran’s Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Cohagen Hall or Trinity Lutheran Church.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday November 5, 2019
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Celebration of Life
6:00 p.m.
Tuesday November 5, 2019
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
Miles City , Montana 59301
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Wednesday November 6, 2019
Trinity Lutheran Church
Miles City, Montana 59301
Interment with Full Military Honors
Wednesday November 6, 2019
Eastern Montana State Veteran's Cemetery
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday November 5, 2019
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Celebration of Life
6:00 p.m.
Tuesday November 5, 2019
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
Miles City , Montana 59301
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Wednesday November 6, 2019
Trinity Lutheran Church
Miles City, Montana 59301
Interment with Full Military Honors
Wednesday November 6, 2019
Eastern Montana State Veteran's Cemetery
Miles City, Montana 59301
Share
GARY AND PAT AND FAMILY says
SO SORRY TO THE PLUHAR FAMILY. THEY WERE MUCHOF OUR LIVES FOR MANY YEARS HAVE MISSED INEZ FOR MANY YEARS AND NOW THEY ARE TOGETHER AGAIN. GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Jo Ryan says
So sorry to hear about Art. I bet he and Inez are dancing in heaven with no pain. Hold the many memories close to your heart. I will.
Curtis Fillafer says
Dennis and Diana
Im so sorry for the loss of Arthur.
So many pleasant memories
Joe and Cathy Donnelly says
Our families have been friends for many years and it is so hard to loose your parents, even if it is the best for them.
They were great people, Inez and Art, and have raised great children to carry on for them. Hugs to you all.
Carol Schneidt says
My thoughts and prayers for all of Art’s family. Enjoyed spending time with Art and Inez!
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
To all of the Pluhar family,
I’m so sorry to hear of Art’s passing. May you all find comfort in the great memories you are sure to have. I will always remember what a hard working rancher he was and the high standard he set for his children and many others. My sincere sympathy to you all.
Nick Clauson says
Hi to Arts family, he was a great friend; we wired a lot of buildings in Garfield County when the R E A came in. We also played some lively “500” games over the years. Know that you will be in our prayers for comfort as you grieve for Art. Sincerely, Nick & Betty Clauson
Maureen Larson says
Dear Pluhar family – sending prayers and hugs to all of you as I know it’s hard to lose a father. I have such pleasant memories of both Art and Inez as they always seemed so friendly and smiling. I know they were both hard workers and raised a beautiful family. Hold your memories near and may you all find comfort in the arms of our gracious Lord.
Chris and Diana Elwood says
Pluhar Family,
Chris and I are so sorry to hear of your loss, Art was a very special guy. May God bless and keep you this hard time. We send our love and sympathy.
Megan Bowles says
My deepest condolences to the Pluhar family. I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Art. You all are in my prayers.
Deb Currey Terrett says
We send our warmest thoughts and prayers for comfort. Art and Inez have left a wonderful legacy in their family and are dancing together again! I have such fond memories of Art as my 5 th grade teacher, his classroom was a great learning environment! We began each day with square dancing, a man before his time in education! I smile when I think of him! God Bless you all!
Esther Nelson says
We want to send you prayers and ask God to
Comfort you . We were blessed to have known
This man as well as his wife ,you were blessed
As well with having them in your life.
God bless and keep you all.
Ern&EstherNelson
Deb & Bob Hagemeister says
To all of Art’s family – so sorry for your loss — he was a kick — always enjoyed our visits over the many years since our high school days at CCDHS — keep your memories close — our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time!
Walter & Shirley Rolf says
Pluhar Family, Sorry for your loss. Thinking of you.
Arlen and Alice Miller says
to all of Arts family , So sorry to hear of the loss .our thoughts and prayers are with you all
Carolyn Handlos (The Bye family) says
Sending our deepest sympathies and prayers to your family. Art was such a deer uncle to us and we so enjoyed the times when our families would get together. Hugs and loving thoughts sent your way.
Carolyn says
Oops clerical.. error.. dear uncle…..
Larry French says
RIP Art. What a Great Aviator and person.
Larry French
Harriet Jansen says
Sorry for your loss. Knew Art & Inez for many years. Very kind people
Jenn Keehn says
Diana and Family, We are so sorry to hear of your Dads passing. He was very sweet man that made us all smile. Wishing you peace at this time.
Jenn and the rest of the evening girls.
Rene Reinhardt says
So sorry for your loss he was a great man and I sure loved taking care of Art. When I left Highgate he was the only guy I truly got attached and loved. I will miss him I have a that picture of his door I decorated for Halloween:) my love and prayers go out to all you guys.
Amber Mantei says
Your dad was a pleasure to get to know. He was a sweet caring man. Your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Art will be missed dearly.
Brayden says
So sorry for you’re loss. Art had the kindest heart. So many good memories with him. I’m so thankful I’ve got to know him. He will truly be missed.
-Brayden Buerkley
Patsy George Almy says
We all lost another great example of how to do life right. I won’t ever forget that twinkle in his eyes. Loving memories of times with all of our “extended parents” as we grew up, and heartfelt sadness for your family.
Deb Bartholomew says
Art Pluhar Families:
So very sorry for your loss. Art will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
AnneMarie Wallette says
What a beautiful tribute. I never met Mr Pluhar, but I feel like I do through reading the words of his beloved family. He did raise a good family, and we are blessed know some of the fruit of that labor of love. Dennis and Jane, our prayers are with you, and the rest of your family.
Harriet Jansen says
Sorry for your loss. Knew Art & Inez for many years. They were always kind to my family. Remember all of the good times.
Cindy & Dale Berg says
Pluhar Family,
So sorry for the loss of Art. What a neat man, so enjoyed visiting with him. He has left behind a great family.
Our prayers are with all of you. God Bless.
Julie Frieling says
Sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one. Lift up the sorrow with all the wonderful memories of your loved one that got extra time on earth. Prayers and thoughts to Deb, Jim, and families
Thoughts and Prayers
Julie, Phil Frieling and family
Cindy Stanton says
My sincerest condolences. Art & Inez were both wonderful people who raised a great family. I always remember Art’s twinkly eyes. He was so kind. His was a life well lived.
Stanton Family says
What a wonderful life and a special person and family. This was an excellently written tribute and a great chance to learn more about Art and his family. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. We are very sorry to hear of your loss and wish you peace and comfort.
Beth Ann and Lyle Hodgskiss says
What a beautiful testimony to a great man!! We’re thinking of your family and know that in your sadness you have much to celebrate! Praying for peace and comfort as you say goodbye, see you later, to someone who has been so special in your lives!
Lynda Johnston says
So sorry for your loss, but heaven’s gain. I have such wonderful memories of our 4-H years and family times together. Mom and I had planned to drive down for the visitation, but the weather had other plans. Just to let you know we’re thinking of you and praying for you. I would love to reconnect, Diana, and I do get to Billings a few times a year when I’m at the ranch. Love and hugs to you all. May the wonderful memories and a life well lived with an eternal perspective comfort you all.
Lynda Hill Johnston
Pat and Monte Herzog says
Pluhar Family. . So very sorry for your loss. . What a wonderful legacy he leaves behind in all of you. Our deepest sympathy and prayers to all of you Monte and Pat Herzog
Wendy Warren says
Much love to the entire family. I sure loved hanging with him and Inez at the Rock Springs picnic when I was younger. What a wonderful man and a great family. My thoughts are prayers are with you all.
Ann (Losinski) and Bill Wetherelt says
The memories you included in both Inez and Art’s obituaries have brought back so many childhood memories of our neighborhood. What wonderful times we had as families growing up in those communities. A personal favorite memory were the New Year’s Eve parties hosted by Art and Inez or by Gary and Pat Helm over many years. And also the occasional summer campouts that were so carefully planned between everyones’ farm chores. As kids it was such a thrill to hear Art’s plane ending over our farmyard, and we would race to be outside and wave back at him as he waved his plane wings at us. Art also wired our farm for electricity. Distinctly remember it was during this time he took out a fan of chew and my sister, Betty, and I were very curious what it was. So he offered us some. When Betty got sick, I was so very glad I had been too shy to take his offering!! Occasionally Bill and I would come across Art and Inez in Miles City and they were always so glad to see us. It was the most heartwarming feeling. They truly lived a good life and shared it with so many around them.
Butch Sweet says
Sorry for your lose my thoughts and prayers are with you all
Muff Engdahl says
Thoughts and Prayers to all of Art’s family – he was a wonderful man and will be missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing him. Hold memories close in your hearts.
Gerome and Rita Wemmer says
So many fond memories of Art and Inez, they are missed. Gods blessings to all and the happy memories that will be with you for many years to come. Remember to pass them on the the next generations, as they should know the love and fun that they had for each and everyone. Deepest sympathies, love to all.
Deona Payne says
My deepest sympathies to the Pluhar Family. Art was one in a million, always smiling and willing to strike up a conversation with anyone. I bet Art and Inez are dancing and playing cards in Heaven right now! What a life well lived. We’ll miss you Art.
Justin & Andrea Pluhar says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Art’s family. What a neat man he was, he and Inez were so involved with their family and community and set a wonderful example. With sympathy, Justin and Andrea
DJ and Gloria Rath Milroy says
Most heartfelt condolences to all of Art’s loved ones. Always enjoyed so much to visit with Art and Inez. May all of your memories be a comfort to each of you. GOD with all of you.
Rebecca Lewis says
Miss Anderson, Thinking of you and sending my sincerest condolences to you and your family. How awesome that you followed in your grandfathers footsteps becoming a teacher. I know he is proud of you. You are one of the beat teachers ever! I loved reading the stories ans seeing ur grand parents dancing together. If we could all be so lucky to live such a blessed life. May many happy memories fill your heart and may this time bring blessings to your family that has hathered together. Love you! Miss Rebecca
Jeffrey A. "Scooter" Fretland says
Dear Debbie and the rest of the Pluhar Family:
I was truly flabbergasted to read of your dad Art’s passing away.. My father Clinton Fretland purchased cattle from him on a couple of different occasions. Dad would occasionally run into Art at the Miles City Livestock Center. Boy, did they love discussing livestock! Your Dad was a gem of a person, as was your mother, and both of them , I suspect, are dancing together in Heaven with my parents, and all their friends and relatives! God’s Peace and Love to you during this very difficult time!
Jeffrey A.”Scooter” Fretland, El Paso, Texas