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Serving families in the Miles City, Forsyth, Lame Deer, Broadus, Circle, Jordan and Terry areas for three generations.

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In Memory Of

Duane Leidholt, age 60, of Miles City

March 1, 1954 – October 24, 2014

Duane Allen Leidholt, 60, of Miles City, our beloved father and hero, died Friday, October 24th, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Dad was born to Robert and Kathryn Leidholt on March 1, 1954, a feisty late winter day-a preview of things to come. He was the third oldest of the eight Leidholt boys.  He attended Sacred Heart High School where he excelled in football for four years on Dan Conner’s championship teams.  He was a surprise starter as a defensive nose tackle as a sophomore at 5’10”, 125 lbs., playing against kids 40 to 60 lbs heavier.  He thrived on this type of challenge.  Also during high school, he worked in Buttrey Food’s produce department under store manager Pete Duncan.

After he graduated from high school in 1972, Dad continued his education at Montana State University after graduating from Miles Community College. During his time at MSU, he bought a 1966 Porsche Carrera that he fixed up and enjoyed driving home to Miles City, even in the winter, which didn’t please his mother.  He put himself through college by working at Buttrey Foods and graduated in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science in Business.

After college, he worked as an assistant store manager at Buttrey Foods in Gillette, Wyoming. Deciding that the grocery business was not for him, he returned to Miles City in 1980.  He then became a Meadow Gold route manager quickly doubling the sales for his route.  While working for Meadow Gold he met his future wife, our mother, Susana Esteves.  They married in 1986 and had four children; Natasha, Dustin, Derek and Savanah.  Dad also had a son Dan, from a previous relationship, and together they did much hunting and fishing.  Dad was a grandfather to Kenisha, Hannah, and Levi and enjoyed spending time with his beloved grandchildren.

Dad started his first business, Western Gaming in 1983 with his brother Denis which they still own today. They successfully expanded this business throughout eastern Montana. Later in his career, he found another great joy when he purchased his first farm.  Our maternal grandfather, Higinio Esteves, taught him how to work the land and fully reap the harvest.  Dad became an excellent productive and award winning farmer, taking blue ribbons at the fair anytime his sweet corn was entered.  He was helped on the farm by his uncles; Adolph, Eugene, and Jimmy.

In addition, Dad found great enjoyment in ranching. Though he was a first generation cattle rancher, his cattle were highly prized at auction.  He took great pride in the quality of the herd he was able to breed after only a decade of ranching.  Dad’s success on his farm, ranch, and other business enterprises, was heavily due to all of those business associates who, in the long-term became good friends, and helped him along the way.

Very dedicated and obsessive about anything in which he was involved, fishing was the great passion of Dad’s life. He spent most of his free time on the water.  His fondest fishing memory was when he caught a World and Montana record-breaking Saugeye.  This award-winning fish weighed 12 lbs, 7 oz and was granted “The All-Tackle and 6 lb Line Class World Record” for the Saugeye by the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame in 1988.  That was followed by a Montana record-breaking Walleye caught February 24, 1989, weighing 14 lbs, 4 oz.  He especially enjoyed fishing with his family, taking trips to his Fort Peck cabin on Hell Creek Reservoir.  He also enjoyed elk and deer hunting with his three boys.  Being outdoors gave Dad much comfort and he continued to enjoy the outdoors even shortly before his death.

Dad had been in poor health for the last few years and although he and our mom were no longer together they continued to care about each other.   Susana, our amazing mother, cared for him through his illness, especially in the last months of his life.

He is survived by his mother, Kathryn Leidholt, of Miles City; his ex-wife, Susana Leidholt of Miles City; his children, Dan Melanson of Hulett, WY, Natasha, Dustin, Derek and Savanah all of Miles City; his grandchildren, Kenisha, Hannah, and Levi all of Hullett, WY; his brothers, Deane of Aiea, HI, Dione of Yuma, AZ, Denis, Darvin, Dan, Doug and Daren, all of Miles City. He is also survived by his childhood friend and trusted long-time business associate, Mike Sturtz. He is survived by numerous beloved aunts and uncles on both his, and Susana’s, side of the family.  Duane was preceded in death by his father, Robert Leidholt.

The following bible verse is comforting to his family: Matthew 11:28-30 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle in spirit and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

Dad, you will be dearly missed every day. We love you so much.  We are so proud of you.  Rest in Peace.  We will be together again.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 31, 2014 at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City followed by a Rosary and Vigil Service at 6:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Miles City.  Interment will follow in the Calvary Cemetery.  Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements.  Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

Service Schedule

Rosary & Vigil

6:00 p.m.

Friday October 31, 2014

Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Mass of Christian Burial

10:00 a.m.

Saturday November 1, 2014

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

120 North Montana Ave.

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Interment

Saturday November 1, 2014

Calvary Cemetery

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Service Schedule

Rosary & Vigil

6:00 p.m.

Friday October 31, 2014

Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Mass of Christian Burial

10:00 a.m.

Saturday November 1, 2014

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

120 North Montana Ave.

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Interment

Saturday November 1, 2014

Calvary Cemetery

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

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Memories

Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.

  1. Audrey and Greg family says

    October 25, 2014 at 10:35 am

    Sending hugs and prays to all of yous if there’s anything we can do let us know

  2. Blackie & Carol Schneider says

    October 25, 2014 at 3:05 pm

    Leidholt Family:
    We send you our deepest and sincere sympathy. May you find comfort in the fond memories you shared with Duane. He was a wonderful Boss and friend and I enjoyed his company. May he rest in peace without pain and suffering. Let us know if there is anything we can do.
    God Bless

  3. Aunt Jessie and Uncle Jimmy says

    October 25, 2014 at 6:46 pm

    Thinking of all of you and wishing that we could lift your sorrow. Duane was a special person in our lives. Jimmy so enjoyed remembering the happy times working corn harvest with Duane, Adolph and Eugene. Hard work but great fun. I remember a cute little boy who held my wedding ring so many years ago. Love you all.

  4. jerry&susan says

    October 25, 2014 at 9:02 pm

    I’m so sorry to here about Duane
    All of you will be in our thoughts and prayer’s
    God Bess

  5. Larry and Leona Dann says

    October 26, 2014 at 7:08 am

    So very sorry to hear of your loss. If there is anything you need please call.
    Thoughts and prayers to all of you.

  6. Larry & Denise Sweet says

    October 26, 2014 at 3:37 pm

    So sorry about your loss. You all will be in our thoughts and prayers during this loss.

  7. Chris Meidinger says

    October 26, 2014 at 7:49 pm

    so sorry to hear about the loss of Duane to your entire family. I’m sure he’ll be watching over you for the rest of your lives. I’ll pray for all of you guys!!

  8. Della Ahearn says

    October 26, 2014 at 8:35 pm

    Sorry for your lost,Duane is in a better place,smiling down on,You all are in my thoughts and prayers .
    God Bless

  9. TJ and Tana Kiel says

    October 27, 2014 at 8:40 am

    We are sorry to hear of your loss of Duane. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

  10. barbieann todoroff says

    October 27, 2014 at 8:41 am

    So sorry to hear of Duane passing, he was a great friend of the family for many years. Rest In Peace

  11. Ken Minow says

    October 27, 2014 at 9:09 am

    Very sorry to hear about Duane’s passing.Condolences to the entire family from Ken and Jim from the KM Repair guys.Godspeed my friend.

  12. Dave Grauman says

    October 27, 2014 at 10:11 am

    So sorry to learn of your loss. Enjoyed working with Duane at Meadow Gold.

  13. Gina Mader says

    October 27, 2014 at 2:20 pm

    I’m so sorry to hear of your family’s loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

  14. Kyla Kennedy says

    October 27, 2014 at 2:42 pm

    Leidholt Family I as so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time.

  15. Jean Jones says

    October 27, 2014 at 5:56 pm

    We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Duane. Our family is praying for you all.
    Jim, Jean and children

  16. Michelle Kuper says

    October 27, 2014 at 6:36 pm

    Leidholt Family. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  17. Cindy, Kelly and Kelcy Conley says

    October 27, 2014 at 9:01 pm

    So sorry to hear of Duane’s passing…Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  18. Ron & Connie Watts says

    October 28, 2014 at 7:19 am

    So sorry to hear about Duane. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God bless.

  19. Mary and Tim Hurr says

    October 28, 2014 at 7:31 am

    So sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

  20. darlene russell says

    October 28, 2014 at 8:14 am

    So sorry to hear about Duane, family prayers are with the entire family, of course Duane was one of my favorite people, always so friendly and caring.

  21. Vicky Johnsgard Strom says

    October 28, 2014 at 8:32 am

    I am sorry to hear of Duane’s passing. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

  22. Debbie ( EMMIL ) Herold says

    October 28, 2014 at 9:36 am

    Our thought’s and prayers are with you . May the fond memories of Duane help comfort you at this difficult time. God bless.

  23. Toni Lathrop Canady says

    October 28, 2014 at 10:07 am

    Leidholt Family my heart breaks for all of you! My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!

  24. Merry and Armando DeAnda says

    October 28, 2014 at 10:10 am

    Dear Leidholt Family: We send you our deepest and sincere sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God bless your family during this difficult time.

  25. Ken and Vicki Hess says

    October 28, 2014 at 11:51 am

    Sorry to hear about Duane. Will miss him and his sense of humor. Wishing all of you the best. May God bless each one of you.

  26. Woitkielewicz family says

    October 28, 2014 at 9:25 pm

    We are sorry to hear about Duane he was a great man our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.

  27. Donna Leitholt-Taylor says

    October 28, 2014 at 9:39 pm

    What a beautiful obituary. Duane will be missed, but he has left a wonderful legacy in his children and grandchildren. He was a wonderful man and cousin. I will miss him.

  28. John & Penny Shevlin says

    October 28, 2014 at 9:55 pm

    John and Duane worked together for many years at Buttreys! We have many fond memories of those times. Thoughts and prayers to Duane’s family and friends.

  29. Jane Kaderis says

    October 29, 2014 at 6:14 am

    Duane was a man that marched to the beat of his own drum. I enjoyed his quick wit and easy bantering. He was always ready with a joke or story and whenever I saw him, he was wearing that mischievous grin. He will be missed. Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. You are all in my prayers.

  30. Michael and Joelyne Rogers says

    October 29, 2014 at 6:33 am

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this great loss.

  31. Kevin, Sheila, Chance, Lesslie, & Kimber Krausz says

    October 29, 2014 at 8:49 am

    We were saddened to hear of Duane passing away. May you find comfort in your memories of him. God bless. Kevin, Sheila, Chance, Lesslie, & Kimber Krausz

  32. DAN DINARDI says

    October 29, 2014 at 9:51 am

    SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. DUANE AND I WERE GOOD FRIENDS, CHOPPED A LITTLE CORN
    TOGETHER, FISHED TOGETHER,HAD A BEER TOGETHER,AND A GOOD TIME. BUT I NEVER
    CAUGHT AS MANY BIG FISH AS HE DID. REST IN PEACE

    DAN DINARDI BILLINGS MT

  33. Dan, Jean and Ryan Doran says

    October 29, 2014 at 10:53 am

    So, sorry to hear about the passing of your father. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this time. May God Bless you. Dan and Jean.

  34. Mitch and Laurie Cadlo says

    October 29, 2014 at 2:33 pm

    We are so sorry to hear of Duane’s passing. I have many memories of Duane and the other Leidholt family members during my Sacred Heart years. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

    Mitch and Laurie

  35. Keith and Barb Hoover says

    October 29, 2014 at 5:11 pm

    So sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in Our Lord and Savior

  36. Diane Connors Rewerts says

    October 29, 2014 at 9:18 pm

    On behalf of the Connors family, condolences. Dad was fond of the Leidholt boys and proud of their accomplishments.

  37. James L. Arneson says

    October 30, 2014 at 6:03 am

    I am sorry to hear about the loss of Duane. May God watch over and comfort your family now and always.

  38. Carol LaRose Schuetzle says

    October 30, 2014 at 6:29 am

    Leidholt Family were so sorry for your loss.
    Our thoughts and prayers are with you all and friends of Duane.
    Big ((Hugs)) and love to all.
    Warren and Carol Schuetzle

  39. Kim Stanton says

    October 30, 2014 at 1:47 pm

    Dear Leidholt Families,

    Please accept our condolences on the loss of your beloved Dad and brother. His obituary is such a loving tribute to a man who will be missed greatly. We are keeping you all close in thought and prayer as you celebrate his life, and yet grieve his loss. May the Holy Spirit, the Divine Comforter, bring you all peace and consolation.
    With loving sympathy,
    Dan, Kim, Kasey, and Kyle Stanton

  40. Karen Stephens says

    October 30, 2014 at 2:28 pm

    I am sorry to hear about the loss of Duane. Thoughts and prayers to all of you.

  41. B & C OIL COMPANY says

    October 30, 2014 at 6:15 pm

    Our sincere sympathy to all of Duane’s family from all of us at B & C Oil Co. It was a
    pleasure doing business with him over the years!
    Bill, Patsy, Roger, Ryan, Phil

  42. Lynn Holom Harper says

    October 30, 2014 at 8:15 pm

    I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

  43. clara jo (Arneson) Sikveland says

    October 30, 2014 at 9:30 pm

    My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family

  44. Dale & Cindy Berg says

    October 31, 2014 at 7:57 am

    Leidholt Family,
    So sorry to hear about Duane. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all.

  45. Garth Sleight says

    October 31, 2014 at 10:13 am

    The Leidholts are a large and tight-knit family with an exemplary work ethic. I know Duane’s passing leaves a big hole in many, many hearts. My sincere condolences go out to all of you.

  46. Jim Wayland says

    October 31, 2014 at 5:08 pm

    To all the Leidholt family….. I am so sorry to hear of Duane’s passing. I thought the world of him. We had a lot of good times together. Be strong. My prayers are with you all.

  47. Ray and Karen Pellant says

    October 31, 2014 at 11:09 pm

    We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

  48. Joanne Cowles says

    November 1, 2014 at 11:25 am

    Please accept my deep sympathy for your loss to both family and friends of Duane Leidholt.
    I took note of the scripture mentioned in his obituary of Jesus’s words at Matthew 11 where he said “learn from me”. One of the most heart warming things we can learn from Jesus’s time on the earth was demonstrating his ability and his desire to bring back to life those who died. The Bible gives 9 accounts to be exact. It’s one of the wonderful promises that will be fulfilled under the kingdom rule over the earth we were told to pray for in the Our Father Prayer. Then, also Revelation 21:3,4 and Psalm 37:29 will see fulfillment as the “former things” of death, mourning and pain will be “done away with” and the” meek will inherit the earth.” Until that time may reading these verses in your Bible be of comfort to you as you have the hope of seeing your dear one return to life on earth as God originally purposed.

  49. Chuck Schott says

    November 1, 2014 at 12:20 pm

    The class of “72” looses another great guy in Duane, he had a great sense of humor and one of the best and hardiest laughs of anyone in the class. My deepest condolences to the family and my old buddy Mike, I’m sure Duane has a left warm spot in your hearts that will be there for the rest of your days. He was a great and careing guy from all I recall so that’s how he will be remembered.

    RIP old friend
    Chuck

  50. Sally Daugherty says

    November 3, 2014 at 11:14 am

    Denis and family, we are so sorry to hear about Duane. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

    Sally & Larry Daugherty

  51. robert jacobson says

    July 25, 2022 at 2:56 pm

    Hi I am Dr Robert L Jacobson PhD chemical engineer My grandmother was Katrina Leidholt of Mobridge SD
    She came to USA with her father, mother and three bothers. Robert and Leonard lived a couple of blocks from me in north Miles City I think with Carl Leidholt My mother called Carl her uncle
    They came from Grimms southern Russia. Catherine the Great of Russia brought in Germans to populate tributaries of the Volga river in 1750 to get Russia populated. I recall all of the relatives speaking German and of course English. Two of the brothers had 12 or so kids each. I think David and Philipp . Chris was never married. The family members homesteaded near Mobridge and Bowdle SD You can look up the homestead information.

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Service Schedule

Rosary & Vigil

6:00 p.m.

Friday October 31, 2014

Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Mass of Christian Burial

10:00 a.m.

Saturday November 1, 2014

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

120 North Montana Ave.

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Interment

Saturday November 1, 2014

Calvary Cemetery

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

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