John D. Bailey

John David Bailey, 44, of Bonner, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2015 of natural causes at his home. John was born July 7, 1970 in Missoula to Ron and Jamie Bailey. He grew up at the family home in the Blackfoot Valley. He attended schools in Missoula and Bonner, graduating from Sentinel High School in 1990. He then became employed through Opportunity Industries which included local jobs at Out To Lunch at Caras Park, Southgate Mall grounds keeping, Taco Bell, and finally his favorite, Superior Hardwoods.
John was a member of Missoula Back Country Horsemen for many years and enjoyed riding his Pinto, "Patches" along back country trails with his family, friends and club members. He especially enjoyed the steak rides and liked to help out on the serving line.
In January 2000, John "retired" with his parents and became an Arizona snowbird. He made many new friends during his 15 winters that were spent in the Arizona Sunshine. It was there that his passion for 4-wheeling became full blown and he rode along on his Yamaha Big Bear over miles of desert trails. When he returned to Montana for the summer months he continued cruising the mountain roads with his favorite 4-wheeling companion, nephew Cody Ahlin.
John was one of God's special children. He had a unique sense of humor and fun and readily shared his opinions and ideas. He loved family, friends, parties, music, and most of all his cabin. He was pleased and honored to be Best Man at his nephew, Ben Ahlin's wedding in October 2014.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Bailey, grandparents Merle and Mildred Bailey of Iowa, and Bill and Marie Taggart of Bonner, an aunt and uncle Kathy and Harlan Reynolds of Iowa.
He is survived by his mother, Jamie; a sister, Michelle (Patrick) Ahlin of Stevensville, nephews Ben (Kait) Ahlin and Cody Ahlin of Stevensville. Aunts Joan (Merlin) Schmautz of Spokane, and Rita (Gary) Bailey-Holly of Iowa.
Jamie and her family would like to thank Partners in Home Care Hospice for their support and care these past months. A special mention of gratitude to Mary Ellen, Melonie, Ted and Rae. John loved each of you and looked forward to your weekly visits.
A memorial service is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, 2015 at Garden City Funeral Home. 1705 W. Broadway, Missoula. A reception will follow in Garden City's community room. Charitable contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Partners in Home Care or a charity of your choice.
So long friends, I'm movin' on now.
Condolences and memories may be sent to the family at www.missoulafunerslhomes.com


Read John Bailey's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.