Gary Flatow

Gary passed away at his home in Missoula on October 22, 2024 at the age of 82.

Gary was born August 12,1942 in Helena, Montana and graduated from Helena High School in 1960. He attended the University of Montana from 1960 to 1966 and served in the Montana Army National Guard for 36 years. In 1967 he joined the First Banks System, now known as US Bank and retired in 1989 as a Vice President. He attended several banking schools throughout his career. He was a certified ski instructor at the Marshall Ski Area from 1967-1985 and at Snowbowl Ski Area from 1986 until 2020. He served as Director of the Snowbowl Ski School for several years. He was a member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) for 57 years.

Gary always found time to give back to his local community. He served as a Treasurer and President on the board of Cimestoppers, Montana Eye Bank, Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, and Kiwanis.

Gary's passion was outdoor recreation including downhill skiing, windsurfing, mountain biking, and more. He put a lot of time and creative energy into helping people achieve their personal and business goals. Gary cherished living life to the fullest. His motto was "work hard, play hard!" and he truly loved the freedom of skiing.

He also cherished his daughter and enjoyed watching her life's achievements.

Gary is survived by his daughter Keely Flatow Zimmermann (Andrew), brother Henry Flatow (Kim), three nephews Brent, Kevin, and Hank; two nieces, Marnie Flatow and Heidi Flatow Gault (Brien); a cousin Sharon Johns, great nephew Jonathan Salt, great nieces Kyra Flatow and Autumn Barney (Kyler) and their son Kohen; Gigi Cladis Flatow (to whom he was married from December 1972 until July 1989); and best friend Sam Divita.

Gary was preceded in death by his Mother Betty Savage Hudson June 19, 2009, his Father Marvin Flatow in 1942, and Aunt Dolly Eschenburg on February 14, 2013.

A celebration of life will be held in the Spring of 2025 to ensure all of Gary's friends and family can gather to commemorate him.

To honor Gary's memory, the family requests in lieu of flowers, that a donation in his name be made to AniMeals Animal Adoption Center in Missoula.