Garland Jeffrey Thayer

Garland J. Thayer, 48, of Missoula, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017.

Garland was born on May 6, 1969, in Charleston, West Virginia, to William and Brenda Thayer. After growing up and recreating in the mountains around Charleston, he went on to attend Culver Military Academy, and graduated with a bachelor's in economics and political science from the University of Montana in 1992. He loved the Missoula area for the outdoor recreation opportunities and warm community. It is here that he chose to raise his three children with his wife Molly.

Garland was a self-employed investment advisor from 1992 until his death. He served as a deacon and elder in the Missoula First Presbyterian Church, in addition to serving on numerous boards and organizations including the Missoula Art Museum, Missoula Ski Education Foundation, Downtown Lions Club and Ducks Unlimited.

Garland loved being in the mountains and surrounding areas of Missoula, and enjoyed mountain biking, fishing, skiing and camping with his family and friends. He also enjoyed painting and writing poetry, with much of his inspiration coming from the above-mentioned activities and locations.

Garland is predeceased by his brother Cameron and his father William. He is survived by his wife Molly, and their three children, Todd, Erin and Seth, of Missoula; his mother, Brenda Thayer, and stepfather Tom Ross, of Missoula; half-brother, William Thayer, and half-sisters, Annette Thayer, and Elizabeth Thayer-Young, all of Charleston, West Virginia.

There will be a private memorial for family and close friends. Those who wish to share their condolences may contact the family at: thayer5family@outlook.com or P.O. Box 5581, Missoula, MT, 59806.