Clifford Preston passed away on October 26, 2025, at age 77, in Helena, Montana. He had previously lived near Townsend for many years. Prior to that time, he called Powder River County, MT, his main home.
Cliff was born to parents, Ernest and Mary Lois (Knie) Preston on Nov. 10, 1947. Four siblings joined Cliff – Ronnie, Bobbi Jean, Tom, and Mary Lynn. When Cliff’s mother became ill, he lived with his caring aunt and uncle, Donna and Tom Preston, at their Powderville ranch. Later, Cliff’s father married Jody Preston, and three more children completed the family: Angie, Echo, and Ernie.
During the elementary years, Cliff attended country schools and Broadus school. He enrolled in high school in Miles City at the Custer County High School and graduated in 1966. He especially enjoyed FFA, track, football, photography, and choral. His instructors said he excelled in FFA competitions, livestock judging and earned high marks in the classroom. He continued his education at Montana State University in Bozeman and Montana Tech in Butte.
Ranch life with Tom and Donna Preston taught Cliff valuable lessons. He loved the country life and thrived while living there, while learning a strong work ethic. Training horses was a favorite pastime, and he took pride in riding a good horse. Moreover, he became proficient at welding, hunting, calving, roping, haying, and fencing.
A 24-year marriage to Paula Nisley began in 1967, in Broadus, and they raised three children: Curtis, Danielle, and Tonya. The parents ranched with sheep and cattle, while also working outside jobs. Cliff labored on workover rigs. He was known as a hard-working, dedicated employee with a positive attitude.
In 1997, Cliff married Connie Piquette. He was employed at Ry Timber for 20 years. The couple enjoyed the outdoors and traveled to county fairs and street dances. They lived in the Townsend area until health issues intervened, and they moved to the Beehive Homes in Helena in February 2025 until their passing. Connie passed away on Nov. 20, only a few weeks after Cliff died.
Cliff was preceded in death by his parents and infant brother, Ronnie. His survivors include his six siblings, and his three children and their families. His six grandsons are Steven Ray, Anthony Ray, Matthew Ray, Isaiah Maestas, Israel Maestas, and Churchill Tamakloe.
At Cliff’s request, no memorial services are planned.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Teresa Geib Klein Bacon says
I went to CCHS w Cliff was so sorry to hear of his passing. My Condolences and Prayers to the Family
Darla M Timmons says
Our condolences to Cliff’s family and friends. CCHS Class of 1966.
Doug Stewart says
RIP Cliff & Connie. Cliff, sorry in not being able to spend more time with you through these last years. We always enjoyed your visits to Missoula and I especially enjoyed the years of harvesting and eating the Nisley wild game. Thank you for the times we did get to visit in these later years.
You and your siblings have always held a special place in my heart and always will.
You were always very faithful in your belief in the Heavenly Father and now you will get to see your Mom and Dad and brother Ronnie along with numerous Knie related cousins who went before you.
Our love and prayers for all your family.
Rest in God’s peace until we see all of you again.
Love you, Uncle Doug & Aunt Shirley
T says
My father was a steady presence in my life-a man whose loved showed more in his actions than his words. He taught me the value of strength, integrity, and showing up even when it was hard. Through his example, I learned what it means to care deeply, to persevere, and to do the right thing even when no one is watching.
He was someone others could rely on, a protector, a guide and source of wisdom. His lessons didn’t end with words; they lived in the way he treated people, the sacrifices he made and the love he has for his family. He shaped me in ways I will carry for the rest of my life.
Though he is no longer here, his presence remains- in the memories we hold., the values he passed down, and the love that continues to connect us. He will always be a part of me, walking beside me everything I do.
I miss you, Dad, more than words can express. Thank you for the love, the lessons, and the legacy you leave behind. You will never be forgotten.
Max and Vickie Miller says
Our prayers are for the family! We’re so sorry to hear of Clff’s passing. He worked with Max on the rig in the Belle Creek oilfield and he and Paula were good friends of ours. We had some good times together! Great guy!!
Judy Denson-Keller says
My ❤️ thoughts prayers and hugs go out to the Preston family at this most difficult time. We were friends and neighbors of the Prestons when they lived at Powderville. My Mom even drafted the plans for the house they built later on. Clifford was was always smiling, cheerful, and ready to lend a helping hand. I remember one particular day when we were docking lambs, my Dad discovered a lamb rejected by it’s mother. Dad decided to take it home and I would raise it. He put the lamb in the cab of the pickup. However just as I opened the door, the lamb tried to make a break for it and escape. I grabbed the lamb by leg and screamed for help. Cliff and Dad came running. Cliff grabbed ahold of the lamb, climbed into the back of the pickup and held onto that lamb until we got it safely home. Afterwards ‘Bummer’ and I became inseparable so that turned out well. Cliff was always there to lend a helping hand with a smile. May he and his loved one REST IN PEACE 🕊️!
Larry D French says
RIP Cliff. I lost track of you after the Wedding in Broadus. That was a lone time ago but thought of you often. Wish we could have gotten together.
Larry French