Giles Kallenbach, age 55, of Forsyth passed away the morning of April 22, 2015 due to complications from cancer. Giles Martin Kallenbach was born on November 7, 1959 in Forsyth, Montana to Marcel and Larrie Kallenbach. He was born in a hurry and never slowed down. He joined his two older sisters, Shelly and Heidi. His parents were very excited to have a little boy.
He went through grade school in Forsyth and was an avid hunter and fisherman. His love for mechanics started at age 2 when he took apart a toaster and put it back together again. This love turned into him becoming a true craftsman of cars. In high school he excelled in everything he set his heart to, especially sports. He was a State Champion in pole vault in 1978.
After a year of college at North Dakota State School of Science, he decided to pursue a career in seismograph. This job took him all across the globe. After a time at this job, he decided to stay in one place for a while, so he took a construction job in California. He suffered an accident while working here that caused him to move closer to home. Once he was back in Forsyth, he returned to his love of mechanics. He could fix anything and everything he put his hands on, all with a little extra grease. Giles was a wonderful teacher, sharing with many his love for cars and speed. He loved being able to work closely with all his buddies, especially during derby season. #47 was always in contention. Giles then took on the art of bartending. He met many lifelong friends during this time. He used his knowledge of sports and his world travels to B.S. with the best of them. Giles’ love for sports centered around the Vikings, the Griz, and the Dogies.
In September of 1996, Giles was graced with his beautiful daughter Ruby. He loved to watch her in anything she decided to do. This last season was his favorite, getting to watch his daughter and the Dogies win a Volleyball State Championship and place 3rd in State Basketball.
He is preceded in death by his father Marcel Kallenbach.
Giles is survived by the light of his life, his daughter Ruby; parents Larrie and Jay Ashcraft; sisters, Shelly (Mark) Zitka and Heidi (Mick) Dykman; nieces, Shawna (Gary) Rossberg, Stacey (Duane) Farr, Shannon (TJ) McInerny and Michelle Dykman; his love, Mariann Callen and her daughters, Jill (Eric), their boys Landon and Layne, and Stephanie (Chris). He is also survived by his special uncle Cal, and other aunts, uncles, cousins and all his friends.
In lieu of flowers, if you wish, please make donations to the Forsyth Booster Club to support Giles’ love for Dogie athletics.
Giles’ family will receive friends in the chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth Friday, April 24, 2015 from 4:00-6:00 pm. Funeral Services will be at 11:00 am Saturday, April 25, 2015 at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth. Burial will follow at the Forsyth Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Friday April 24, 2015
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Ln
Forsyth, MT 59327
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Saturday April 25, 2015
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Ln.
Forsyth, MT 59327
Graveside Service
Following the Funeral Service
Saturday April 25, 2015
Forsyth Cemetery
Forsyth, MT 59327
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Friday April 24, 2015
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Ln
Forsyth, MT 59327
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Saturday April 25, 2015
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Ln.
Forsyth, MT 59327
Graveside Service
Following the Funeral Service
Saturday April 25, 2015
Forsyth Cemetery
Forsyth, MT 59327
Share
Pat & Bob Corbin says
Ruby I am so sorry for your loss. It was no secret how much your dad loved you. He was always so proud of you. I hope it is a comfort to you that he is not sick any more. Hold your memories close and know he will be watching you from afar. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dwayne Albertson says
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
A pleasant memory from the old days. During drama class one fine Spring day, Giles jumped up, shouted “Big Mac Attack,” ran out the door, around the building and back to class. I was not amused at the time, but it makes me happy to remember it today. (You young folk will not recognize that allusion.)
He was a kind and considerate man. He thought the world of you, Maryanne and was so very proud of Ruby.
Larrie, I am so sorry for you, Jay, Heidi and Shelly.
Be strong and know that Giles affected many lives and will not soon be forgotten.
Joan Leinwand says
sending my condolences to Giles’ family and especially Ruby. So hard to lose a loving father at such a young age. Take care.
Korry (Quincer) Zuber says
I hope that you can find some comfort in your many special memories and in the thought of the happy years you shared. My prayers go out to all the Kallenbach Family.
I write this note with a heavy heart. Sincerely Korry~
Janet & Randy Stanhope says
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Linda says
For 26 years I have known Giles. Giles had an unconditional love for people. He would buy 50 lb bags of potatoes from me to give away to those that would come into the bar to play cards. He loved his sports, even though the Vikings were always the underdog. Ruby, he loved watching you play, he was so proud of you. Don’t think he is not looking over you today, tomorrow, and in the future, he will always be with you. My condolences to Larrie, Jay, Heidi, Shelly, Mariann Callen, Jill and Stephanie Dana. I love you and God bless you all.
Julie LaBree Stephens says
The tributes before this couldn’t have said it any better. Giles was a friend to everyone. Some of our friends have passed before him so he is in good company. My heart goes out to all his family, I know how much you will miss him. Remember those we love are forever with us in spirit.
Stephanie West says
My condolences to you ruby and family. ..he was a nice man and funny too. Stay strong
Larry and Nan Quinlan says
Ruby…you don’t know us but we have watched you grow up.so very sorry about you’re Dad.he was a great guy.we all hung around when we were younger. He was very proud of you and your sisters as well.prayers to you and your family.
Sheila and Monty Haselhuhn says
Larry, Jay, Ruby, Marrianne, Shelly and Heidi, Please Accept our condolences on Giles’s passing. it is so difficult to lose a loved one. Remember his contagious smile, his pride in you all, and remember he loved and was loved by you.
Laurie says
My thoughts and prayers go out to you, Ruby and your family. I met your Dad when I first moved here 7 years ago. He was always smiling and so very proud of you. He will be missed by all. He always said how proud he was of you and loved watching you play your sports.
Lori and Ken Reierson says
My thoughts and prayers go out to Giles family. You will always be “Fro” to me.
Steve and Geneva Stroud says
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Randy Durr says
Giles was a good person and a wonderful teammate. The good Lord got a true Dogie today!!
Marilyn Watson says
So sorry for your loss. Giles was a great friend. Sympathy and prayers for the entire Kallenbach family.
Patrick Mcmordie says
Giles was a great and kind man, I remember he picked me up in bozeman when I was a kid and took me back to forsyth. he even bought me my first big mac sandwich. even to this day when i eat a big mac I always think of him and his kind gesture. I also remember seeing him do the pole vault back in high school. I thought he was pretty cool. So I decided to get into pole vaulting. the man will be missed for sure.
Lynn (Hecht) Rusch says
My thoughts and prayers go out to you. Giles created a lot of fun memories growing up for all of us. Rest in peace.
Bob & Marlys Lee says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Bob has many fond memories of “the old days” with Giles.
Kelly (Cartwright) Handley says
I, too, have many fond memories of Giles. “Fro”…that’s what he’ll always be to me. Although I was never a true family member, you all, including Giles, made me feel like one. He will be missed by many, remembered by many more. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the family.
Karla Weamer Mahan says
Ruby,
We haven’t met but I did watch you play at the divisional basketball games in Billings. You definitely take after your dad in athleticism! Your dad was a classmate of mine. I remember a group of friends including your dad playing flag football in an open lot across the street from his childhood home. He was always so much fun to be around. He was our class president our senior year and was just loved by so many of us. I know how hard it is to lose a dad at such a young age and my heart goes out to you and your family. Many of our classmates have expressed their sorrow and are praying for you and your family during these difficult days ahead. Peace be with you.
Sharon Wetsch says
Larrie- Jay- Marianne and girls.
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers. He was a good person and I know he will always be there for you. Hugs.. Sharon and Duane Wetsch
Penny Pulver Teeters says
I have many great memories of Giles from school and especially High School track. Giles always made everything more fun for all those around him and he will be greatly missed. His afro was always a topic of discussion in high school and makes me smile right now thinking of it. My heart goes out to all of you. I hope you can find comfort in your wonderful memories of Giles. With my thoughts and prayers.
Penny Pulver Teeters
Peggy Redman and Earl Mortensen says
To the family of Giles K.
Earl joins me in sending heartfelt condolences to you in the passing of your beloved Giles. May you find comfort and strength in knowing others care. We are thinking of, and praying for you, at this this difficult time. My first memories of Giles go back many years ago, he was the only person in eastern Montana that could get my cantankerous lawn mower to run. May warm memories help soften your sorrow, and may faith help you face each tomorrow.
Bill and Joby Parker says
Larrie, Jay, Shelly, Heidi, Ruby, Marianne and all who loved Giles so much,
We are so deeply sorry for your loss. Please know we are holding you close in our thoughts and lifting you
up in prayer.
Terri and Charlie Brown says
Ruby, Larrie, Jay, Marianne, Steph, Jill, Heidi and Shelly,
It is a sad time, but may the good memories you have of Giles keep you strong. Ruby, you were the joy and light of his world. He was so very proud of you. He loved his Dogies!! As you said he now has the best seat in the house and he will forever be with you and give you strength to endure and excel to your highest goals. May God bless you all and keep you forever in His care.
Arnie and Melode Warner says
Larrie, Jay, Shelly, Heidi and kids,
We are sorry to hear about Giles. Prayers for peace and grace for you all.
Bill and Rita FitzGerald says
No words will dull your pain, but soon you memories will make you smile a little. Our prayers are with all of you, especially, you Ruby. You have his strength of character and will carry his memory to his grandchildren someday.
Lane Larson says
Giles always had a smile and a good word to say. Nobody but Giles could take over my ’65 Chevy van and make something of it. Our Families go way back and remember some great time with all of you. See you soon
Mary Kamerzel says
Larrie, Jay, Shelly, Heidi, Ruby, and Maranne I am so sorry for your loss. You and in my thoughts and prayers.
Dirk Moos says
I have so many fun memories with Giles and Forsyth Montana will never be the same without him. My love, thoughts and prayers are with the whole family.
Stan Hanson says
Read every comnet posted here they are all true and sincere (as he was) Giles only knew friends NO enemy’s Very rare soul. LOVE to you FRO!
Larry and Mary Pattison. says
So sorry to hear about Giles. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the whole family and especially Ruby.
Rachel Yanchar and Richard Watson says
Ruby, though I have not been here but a few years, I got to know your dad pretty well..his love for you can not be measured in words. He beamed from ear to ear when ever you were mentioned and was so very proud of all you have accomplished. Remember he will always be with you where ever you go. His love for you will not be gone though he is no longer with you in person he will always be there in your heart. Richard Grew up with your dad and he considered him a great friend. He will greatly be missed by us. May you find comfort in those around you that loved your dad and in turn are here for you in this sad time.
Gayle Larsen says
Larrie, Jay &Family.
So very sorry to hear about Giles passing. It’s difficult to have a child (even though they are a adult ) leave us behind.Having special memoriesof them helps our hearts heal the pain of the loss. We never forget them, but time softens the hurt . I’m praying God well give you peace and strength at this sad time.
Pam Erickson says
Larrie and Jay,I am so sorry for your loss. You and yours are in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
Dick Tallent says
I didn’t know Giles that well but I remember how he was the littlest guy on the football team and we would knock him down and he would bounce up and laugh at us. Sure sorry he is gone..
Jay Weber says
Giles was always a good friend of mine. Sorry to see him go. Condolences to his family. I’d love to have one more game of chess with him. Probably something most of you never saw from him. He could play chess as well as he fixed things.
Cindy (Allison) Erhardt says
Giles (Fro to all of the class of ’78), was full of life and fun. He will dearly be missed!
Richard Yanchar says
Ruby, I’m so sorry for your loss.
Jackie dassinger says
to Giles’ family: So sorry for your loss. Giles was always so pleasant and friendly. I feel your loss, Larrie, as I lost my son, David, at the age of 4 How lucky you were to have your son for 50 more years than I had mine (if that is any consolation). Steve and I are thinking of you and your family. Your friend, Jackie
Susan Johnson Morgan says
My condolences to your family. I was thinking about Giles this evening and remember starting first grade and then graduation… Giles was always a part of my memories of Forsyth.
Jim Borer says
I had no idea he had passed, wondered about seeing him over the years. He beat me at chess so many times when we were in High School, told me that I had to be more patient. He enjoyed working for Dad at Valley Auto too. And I always admired his pole vaulting ability. Will miss him, condolences to his family and his parents, my former teachers.
Michelle Mogen Phelan says
I remember Giles with such fondness, always friendly, always kind, and always with a sweet smile. Please accept my sincere condolences Larrie, Jay, and the rest of the family. It’s been years since I’ve seen Giles but watching the video took away the distance instantly. May your memories of him bless you and keep you and bring you comfort.
Peace be with you.
Karie Weamer says
My thoughts and prayers are with the family through this most difficult time. The video is a beautiful tribute to Giles. I so remember him always laughing, smiling and up to something. May his wonderful memories bring you peace and comfort! A fine man gone to young. RIP Giles
Lori Kerr Hughes says
Shelly, Heidi, Larrie and the Giles Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with the family. I knew Giles as Shelly and Heidi’s little brother. I know how sad it is to lose a loved one. May your happy memories comfort you.
Laurie Lehman Neumiller says
My sincere condolences, thoughts, and prayers go out to Giles’ family. I will always remember Giles from my high school days as an upper classman that was always smiling, joking, and friendly. He was just a ‘cool’ guy that we fondly knew as “Fro”. Larrie & Jay, and the rest of the family – I’m so sorry for your loss. Ruby, I know your dad was so proud of you. I pray that God comforts you now and in the days that follow.
Ray and Karen Pellant says
To the family of Giles,
We are very sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our prayers.
Wendy C Heavrin says
To Giles Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you. May you receive comfort in your wonderful memories and love shared.
Merlyn & Ginny Weber says
Ruby, Larrie, Jay, Marianne
So sorry for your loss.
Mitch Howe says
Giles was the little brother that I never had! I had the good fortune to grow up with all the Kallenbach kids! The one memory that I have held onto all these years was getting to be the one who took Giles out to get his first deer! It was a long shot so he used my big magnum rifle and got him with one shot! I still don’t think his dad believes us to this day!
Laurie, Shelly, and Heidi, I am so sorry for your loss, you were all family to me when I didn’t have much, for that I am truly thankful to have Giles Kallenbach!
David Seaton says
The world is much less without him. D.E.S.