David Silvis

David "Dave" Bruce Silvis passed away at his home in Ekalaka, Montana on January 28, 2017 at the age of 73.

Dave is predeceased by his parents Vernon and Dorothy (Snow) Silvis; brother Frank Silvis; nephew Randy Anderson; and ever faithful sidekick "Beau" dog.

Dave is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Michelle Bucholz (Josh) of Rozet, WY; grandsons Brayden and Braxton Bucholz of Rozet, WY; sisters Delores Anderson (Fred) of Billings, Montana; and Susan Carter (Wayne) of Sierra Vista, Arizona; special nieces Beverly Elmore (Carter) of Colorado Springs, CO; and Charla Carter of Red Lodge, MT; as well as several other nieces, nephews and great nieces.

Dave was born in Ekalaka, Montana on July 27, 1943. He spent his childhood in Ekalaka and graduated from Carter County High School in 1961. Coming from a family background of fantastic engineering and mechanical skill, it would be easy for one to see Dave to fall into his role as a mechanic. However, before settling into his namesake, he dabbled in a few interesting professions, including movie reel-to-reel operator and mortician's assistant, picking up many stories along the way.

Dave proudly served in the United States Army as a truck mechanic and a rifle specialist from 1966-1968. Upon completing his basic training stateside, he was sent to Okinawa, Japan for the remainder of his service contract. During his service he was awarded the Expert Badge for the M-14 rifle, as well as a National Defense Service Medal.

Dave enjoyed collecting unique and peculiar items, and was meticulous with the manner in which he kept them. He was known for drag-racing his prize possession, factory ordered to spec, aptly named "Plum Crazy," 1970 Dodge Hemi Challenger in his younger days, which is now in someone else's precious collection. Dave never lost his need for speed, or owning a snappy convertible, yet was never in a hurry. He regularly enjoyed "driving therapy" with his dog, Beau. Dave always had an interest in film, whether it be photography, collecting several types of cameras and hundreds of slides over the years; or his days of running reel-to-reel. Dave also enjoyed collecting firearms and target shooting.

Of all the skills and talents that Dave possessed over the years, his best known would probably be his knack for having a good time, and being sure to have a story to tell about it later. He believed in working hard and playing hard too. His nature was "time enjoyed wasting, is not wasted time; and it's always 5 o'clock somewhere!" Dave spent many mornings, and many pots of coffee recounting his mischievous stories with his friends. Among all the stories, his fondest memories were of times spent with family.

A service of remembrance including military honors and taps will be held graveside at Beaver Lodge Cemetery, Ekalaka, Montana on July 8th at 11:00 am.

A celebration of life reception and luncheon will take place at Carter County Events Center following the graveside service. Memorial fireworks will be displayed at dusk.