Nicholas Anthony Buller

Nicholas Anthony Buller, 84, passed away on Friday, Jan. 8, 2016, at home, of natural causes.

Nick, as he liked to be called, was born on Nov. 11, 1931, in Marblemount, Washington, to Wade and Helen Buller. He was the ninth of 10 children. Growing up in the Skagit Valley, Nick became an avid fisherman and blackberry picker and continued both hobbies throughout his life. In his youth, Nick had his picture circulated in newspapers across the country with his pet black bear, which he had raised after it had been orphaned as a cub. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force at the age of 17.

During his time in the service, Nick met the love of his life, Betty Jo Garner. They were married March 5, 1955. During Nick's 22-year Air Force career, he earned his associate degree in aircraft maintenance. He and Betty lived in many places including Montana, New Mexico, Illinois and Germany. Nick also served in Iceland and Vietnam.

After retiring from the Air Force, Nick and Betty lived in Washington, before eventually moving to Illinois. Nick worked for General Tire for 13 years, after which he started his own over-the-road trucking company, a boyhood ambition of his. He successfully ran the business for 15 years. In 2015, five years after retiring, he and Betty moved to Missoula.

Nick enjoyed spending time with his family, often taking road trips to Washington and fishing with his grandchildren. His grandchildren would often accompany Nick when he drove truck across country.

Nick was preceded in death by his parents, his nine siblings and his son Christopher.

He is survived by his wife Betty of Missoula; son Mark Buller of Centralia, Illinois; son Joseph Weiss (Susan) of Kent, Washington; daughter Jennifer Lubke (Ron) of Missoula; his sister-in-law Merlene Buller of Marblemount and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In accordance with Nick's wishes, no services will be held at this time. Memorials may be made in Nick's name to Partners Hospice of Missoula, 2687 Palmer St. Suite B, Missoula, MT 59808.


Read Nicholas Buller's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.