James Willard Hall, age 91, passed away on August 8, 2024. He was born June 13, 1933, in Belmont, Montana. His mother was Violet Mae (Paulson) Hall. His father was George Washington Hall. He spent his first years on the family farm with his parents. He had a younger brother, Raymond Charles. The Hall family later moved to Havre, Montana, where his father was a cofounder in an automotive parts business.
Young Jim grew up in the automotive business, which became a large part of his life. His first job was as a janitor, at age 8. He attended college at both Northern Montana College and the University of Montana, studying Business. On June 29, 1957, Jim married Helen Pankratz, who he met at Northern Montana College. Together, James and Helen built a family in Havre, Montana.
He continued his career at Valley Motor Supply, eventually becoming the President of the company as it grew across Montana and into neighboring states. Jim was also very active in the community serving as an elder at First Presbyterian Havre, a Master Mason in the Masonic Lodge, and a Shriner in the North Central Montana Shrine club. In 1989, James retired to spend time with family, enjoying their home in Billings and their vacation home in Bigfork.
James loved working in his workshop, building shelves for his various homes, play kitchens for his children and grandchildren, picnic tables, benches, and loveseats. He could regale anyone with the intricacies of cars from the 1940’s and 1950’s. He spent many hours restoring old cars with his children. James was beloved by his grandchildren, playfully calling them “Susie,” to their delighted laughter. He spent one summer building a go-cart with his grandson. James adored his wife, Helen, and treasured the times spent with his family. James never met a stranger that didn’t leave as a friend.
James is survived by his wife (married 67 years), 2 daughters – Wanda Mostad (Tom), Linda Steiner (Cody) and son, James A. Hall (Kristine). James has six grandchildren – Jessica (James), Alyssa (Erick), Katelyn (Daniel), Drew (Jorgeann), McKinley and Laina. He is also survived by his great-granddaughter, Olivia.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Billings. Interment will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. in the Old Calvary Cemetery in Miles City. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital or the charity of one’s choice.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Thursday August 22, 2024
First Presbyterian Church
2420 13th Street W
Billings, Montana 59102
Graveside Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday August 23, 2024
Old Calvary Cemetery
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Thursday August 22, 2024
First Presbyterian Church
2420 13th Street W
Billings, Montana 59102
Graveside Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday August 23, 2024
Old Calvary Cemetery
Miles City, Montana 59301
Share
Virginia Bitterman says
Sorry to hear about Jim passing
It’s a different life without our hubby’s so am thinking about you Helen
.keep strong
Bonnie Reddig says
Oh Aunt Helen, Wand, Linda and Jim, we are sorrowed at your loss. We lost a great uncle, too! MR and I always enjoyed visiting with Jim and Helen. Sadly, I have octor appointment the day of burial…Jim was a great guy, so happy to visit at any time.
Doug Leidholt says
Linda ,wendy and i are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers,so sorry, its hard to lose a parent evrn when you know is coming
Diane Niezwaag says
My dad, Dennis Peterson, was a coworker of James until his death in 2000. I was in Billings just one month ago as my mom died. Many years of friendship shared with my parents and Jim and Helen. God has you all wrapped in His mighty arms now and in the days to come. May your memories sustain you! God bless you.
Diane Peterson Niezwaag
Merilyn HALL says
Dear Helen and family: Wanda, Linda and James, you are ‘nightly’ in my thoughts and prayers, especially NOW, as losing a loved one is very hard. Just remember that Jesus is with you, and He has said: “I am with you…” and He will stay with you. Be blessed, love and prayers, Merilyn
Merilyn HALL says
Just imagine the FUN Jim is having with all the family who has gone ahead of him – he and they will be waiting for us to arrive – when God calls US to ‘come home.’🥰 Merilyn
Bruce Sapp says
My Condolances to the Hall family on the loss of James. The Hall brothers left a legacy of memories for a lot of us that used the “Great” Valley Motor Supply regularily in Havre and even in Glendive. Enjoyed conversations with little brother Ray and Merilyn through the years. Thanks for all the memories. Bruce Sapp, Azle, TX