Jeffrey Craig Stekly

Jeff Stekly, 62, died peacefully at home in Missoula on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2015. He was born July 1, 1953, the third son of Joseph T. and Wilma D. "Billie" Stekly in Great Falls. Jeff said many times that his oldest brother Joey's advice was instrumental in his future when he thoughtfully advised him to get out and see what was beyond Great Falls.

After graduating from high school as a mighty, mighty Bison, Jeff ventured to Minneapolis, Minnesota, with his great friend Kevin to study and graduate from Dunwoody Mechanical Institute as a mechanical draftsman.

Jeff and Theresa "Terry" Chambers were married upon his return on Aug. 18, 1973. In 1979, Montana State University College of Engineering graduated a talented mechanical engineer who carried the experiences of working for the U.S. Forest service – surveyor, Malmstrom AFB – graphic designer and summer "oil field intern" to join Conoco Oil Company for a 36 year career as a petroleum engineer.

Jeff is the proud and loving father of Cody Craig and Casey Chambers, both born in Oklahoma City. On the home front he could be found in the garage or yard with the boys building the latest toy box, go cart or skate board ramp. Our family are believer's that there is almost nothing that can't be built with plywood and painted with at least four coats to do a good job. He supported the years of Boy Scouting, taught the boys to be skiers, golfers, good drivers and most importantly good caring human beings. Always a proponent of education, he spent hours with the boys on math homework and he continues to contribute to those who follow him in the MSU College of Engineering where he thankfully received support and honors. Jeff had many hobbies throughout his life including motorcycles, Volvos, scuba diving and product research.

Jeff's work allowed his family to live and to travel to amazing places instilling a love for adventure and diversity in his two sons and for that they are grateful. Through New Mexico, Oklahoma, Wyoming, Dubai, Texas, Qatar and beyond, Jeff was a loved and respected friend and colleague. Jeff's golf game started at Conoco Bandera, Texas, and he became an accomplished golfer that played courses worldwide from the U.S. to Scotland, Dubai, Thailand and Bali.

Jeff and Terry retired from Conoco-Phillips in 2009 and returned to Montana, joining family in Missoula as was always the dream. Jeff spent many hours in the company of his grandson Archie, teaching him about wood, tools and water from the hose. They had a special bond and shared many laughs and smiles. Bryton will forever remember Jeff as the tickle monster.

We will remember Jeff as a man dedicated to detail and high expectations, who was generous to his family and friends and supportive of our every endeavor. Jeff showed his love to many and was loved by many, especially the family he left behind: wife Terry; sons, Cody and Casey and their wives Pamela and Lynn-wood; grandsons, Archie, Bryton and baby Otis who will arrive in December; Springers, Skeeter and Lily, all of Missoula and brothers, Randy (Roxanne) of Missoula and Scott of Great Falls and their families.

He was preceded in death by father Joseph T. Stekly; mother Wilma "Billie" Stekly and brother Joseph J. Stekly.

A recognition and celebration of Jeff's life will be held on Monday, Nov. 9, from 10 a.m. to noon at The Ranch Club, 8501 Ranch Club Road, Missoula.


Read Jeffrey Stekly's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.