The Circle Banner - Anyone can love the mountains, but it takes a soul to love the pairie

Richard Joseph "Dick" Hart, 79, of Billings, MT, passed away with loved ones by his side on December 27, 2023. He was born on October 23, 1944, in Circle, MT, to the late Vernon "Bud" & Doris Hart.

Dick was a gentleman who lived his life with a strong belief in right and wrong, a value he instilled in his children and grandchildren. His faith in God guided him throughout his life, and he was a loyal friend to many. He found joy in the simple and basic things in life, such as enjoying a cup of coffee and pursuing his passion for woodworking. Dick's attention to detail was unmatched, and he lovingly crafted countless pieces of woodwork for his friends and family.

He married his wife, Shirley, on December 2nd, 1972 and never remarried after her passing in 1979. Dick often said, "I married the love of my life. Nobody will ever replace her, so why bother looking?" He was a selfless individual who sacrificed and went without so that his children and grandchildren could have the things they needed.

Dick had a great sense of humor, and his one-liners and dad jokes brought laughter to those around him. His infectious laugh and beautiful smile brightened the room. He could strike up a conversation with a stranger and talk for hours, yet when asked what they talked about, he would simply say, "Oh, not much."

Dick graduated from Circle High School and went on to have a successful career as an independent contractor. Dick was proud to serve as a volunteer fire fighter for many years when he lived in Circle. He also worked at Mid Rivers as a lineman in his younger years.

Additionally, he used his endless talent, to build countless beautiful pieces of furniture and wooden toys.

He is survived by his daughter, Karen Hart Carlisle; sons, Todd Hart (Kari) and Ryan Hart (Kim); grandchildren, Matthew Carlisle (Jenny), Andrew Carlisle, Laci Hart, Devin Hart, and Kyra Hart; four great-grandchildren, brother, Gordon Hart (Shari); sister, Mary Alice (Bob Hinnaland); brothers, Leo Hart (Linda), Mike Hart (Patty), Paul Hart (Iris), and Jim Hart; sisters, Cathy (Billy Hale) and Jeanie Hart; brother, Larry Hart; sister-in-law, Jeannie Hart; and sister-in-law, Ellen Hart, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley, his brothers, Pat, Chuck, and Dean Hart, along with his sister-in-law Donna (Pat) and Donna (Gordon).

A memorial and burial service to celebrate Dick's life will be planned in the spring in Circle, MT. The date is yet to be determined.

Dick Hart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. May his memory be a blessing and may he rest in peace.