It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of Garry Dean Steinley, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, who was called to his eternal home on June 23, 2024, at the age of 78.

Garry was born on August 6, 1945, to William and O’Linda (Lorenz) Steinley in Sidney, MT. This was the same day the Hiroshima atomic bombings took place, and his father joked that this was what finally shook him loose. He spent his childhood growing up in both the Fairview and Sidney areas. According to many stories, his favorite pastime was to drive his mother crazy and cause his father to scold him, but sometimes there was a wink to follow. Not quite finishing high school, Garry left during his junior year and went to work as a hired hand. In August of 1962, he enlisted in the National Guard with two of his partners in crime, Harold Schlothauer and Jim Bieber. His shooting skills were put to good use, and he was listed as a qualified sharpshooter with Rifle M1 and Carbine M1, but his primary job was driving truck. He was discharged in May of 1966. Shortly after his return, he met the love of his life, Janet Ochsner. After a whirlwind courtship of only five months, they were married at the Ebenezer Congregational Church on November 5, 1966. They settled in the apartment that Jan had in Sidney for a few short months until moving to the Fairview area where they lived and farmed until they moved to their very own farm in 1977, located by Richland Park. During these years, Garry spent many long days farming, raising sugar beets, corn, many different grain crops, cattle, and driving truck to fill in when times were lean.

Garry was always very civic-minded. He was involved with Jaycee’s, Sidney Moose Lodge 856, Sidney Elks Lodge BPOE 1782, and he was a founding member of the Cedar Creek Grazing Association located in Glendive. He served on the Montana Dakota Beet Growers Association numerous times over the years, as well as selling Dekalb corn and alfalfa seed. Garry was a member of the Shepherd of the Valley Church in Sidney, MT. It was in recent years during his ongoing health issues that caused him to spend a long spell in the hospital and nursing home, that Pastor David became a faithful visitor. They shared many discussions that deepened Garry's faith, which he cherished.

A man with strong convictions and a heart full of grace, Garry was also known for his outspoken nature. He never hesitated to voice his thoughts and stand up for what he believed in, whether it was supporting his fellow farmers, teaching his children a valuable lesson, or engaging in spirited discussions with the locals over coffee at the Depot. His words were always guided by a deep sense of pride, and a sprinkle of sarcasm and humor.

Garry's love for his family was unparalleled. Growing up as an only child, all he ever wanted was a big family. He was a devoted husband to Jan, his wife of 57 years, whose unwavering support and love were the bedrock of his life. Together, they raised three children, Tamara, Dean, and Todd, instilling in them the same values of faith, hard work, integrity, and compassion that defined Garry himself. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren, who were the light of his life and brought him endless joy. Garry was known to demand a kiss on the cheek from each of them anytime they should visit, and they all know that the basement doors had better not be slammed no matter how much fun was happening. Garry was also blessed with great-grandsons whom he enjoyed visiting with on FaceTime and brought him so much joy.

Garry is survived by his wife, Jan; his children, Tamara (Larry) Crowder, Dean (Christie) Steinley, and Todd (Jennifer) Steinley; his grandchildren Kody (Jessica) Boyer, Allie (Cy) Williams, Ella (Connor) Crowder, Danielle (James) Steinley, Mattie (Scott) Sarver, Bill Steinley, and Jacob Crowder; his great-grandchildren Cru & Colt Williams and Logan & Everett Sarver; special daughter Sherri Hardy and her daughters – Kaitlyn and Hannah; in-laws Gary & Diana Ochsner, Sue & Larry Caddell, and Darlene Ochsner; as well as his niece and nephews, cousins, and friends. Garry was welcomed into his eternal rest by his loving parents, many dear family members and friends, and is dancing with his special granddaughter Alyx.

Memorial Contribution