Leonard Wayne Carter

Leonard Wayne Carter, age 77, passed away on May 31, 2017 at his home in Sierra Vista, AZ after a long battle with cancer. He was born on December 14, 1939 in Ekalaka, MT to Leonard Carter and Kathryn H. (Smith) Carter.

Wayne grew up southeast of Ekalaka on the family ranch in the Long Pines and on Jan 11, 1957 enlisted in the United States Army and served until Dec 23, 1958. Then enlisted again from Jan 17, 1963 to May 11, 1964. Wayne honorably served the United States Army and the highlights of his career included serving in the Army Signal Corps working as a Teletype Equipment Repairmen and the priviledge to serve on the US Army's Boxing Team.

Wayne married Susan B. Silvis on November 29, 1968 in Ekalaka, MT. They were happily married for 48 years.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents Leonard and Kathryn as well as all of his siblings. Wayne was a committed member of the Ekalaka Masonic Lodge 120 AF and AM and the Sorrel Horse Patrol.

He was a jack of all trades holding many different jobs throughout his professional career. He had many hobbies but mostly enjoyed spending time with family. He was our fearless leader on all family expeditions and our secret nickname for him was "Sacajawea" coined after the great Lewis and Clark adventures representing the many Carter family camping, rafting, and sightseeing expeditions. If it broke, he could fix it; if lost, he could find it; and if all else failed, he could darn sure bring a smile to your face with one of his creative little "Wayne-isms". Those that knew him, will know exactly what we're talking about.

Wayne is survived by his wife Susan of Sierra Vista, AZ; his daughter Beverly (Cater J. Elmore) Elmore of Colorado Springs, CO; his only granddaughter Morgan Silvis Elmore, two grandsons and many wonderful and amazing nieces and nephews.

A memorial with family and friends will be held later this year in Ekalaka, MT at a date and time to be determined.