Walter Sauskojus

Walter “Walt” David Sauskojus, 89, died peacefully at Spring Creek Inn in Bozeman on September 26, 2016. Walt was born February 11, 1927, the 3rd of 6 children born to David and Marie Sauskojus who farmed in Richland, Mt. He worked hard with his sisters and brothers to help his parents maintain the farm.



In 1946 he served in the Army, stationed in Germany as a welder/mechanic. After being honorably discharged, he came back to the states, fell in love and married Elinor Reddig in 1952 (divorced in 1980). Walt and Elinor had 6 children.



Walt was a “jack of all trades”. His first adventure was a farm in Peerless, Mt. where he moved his small family (at the time) into a remodeled chicken coop that they had acquired from his uncle. He built a real house on the farm while living in the chicken coop. He farmed for 5 years. He wanted to try something different so bought the Star Motel/gas station in Glasgow, Mt., selling the business after 5 years. Then he moved on to his next adventure of raising sheep. He purchased 1000 head of sheep and ranched in Tampico, Mt. Although the sheep ranch was an unforgettable experience for the entire family, Walt wanted more for his family and became a businessman. He started with CharEl Mobile Home Sales and learned all the ins and outs of the mobile home business, starting his own business in Bozeman where he and a partner started Premiere Homes in 1969. Premiere Homes eventually expanded into Billings. He retired to enjoy the leisure life of fishing in his favorite spots not only in Montana but also salmon fishing in Tillamook, Oregon.



He is survived by his 6 children: Charlotte (Jack Runner) of Harlowton, Mt.; Ruth (Roscoe Kronfuss) of Bozeman, Mt.; Kathryn (Steve Marks) of Houston, Tx.; Dean (Karen) of Bozeman, Mt.; Kenneth (Debbie) of Bozeman, Mt.; James (Patty) of Grand Forks, Nd.; 14 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.



Walt is also survived by siblings Anna, Gerhardt, and Karl. He is preceded in death by his sister Ruth and infant brother.



Special thanks to the staff at Spring Creek Inn and Hospice of Bozeman Health for their compassionate care and to the family and friends who came to visit him faithfully. Donations may be made to Spring Creek Inn located at 1641 Hunters Way Bozeman, MT 59718, Hospice of Bozeman Health at 3810 Valley Commons Dr. Bozeman, MT 59718, or a charity of your choice.



A memorial service will be held at Dahl Funeral Chapel 2PM Friday, September 30th with a reception to follow.