James Milton Funk

James M. Funk lived a life full of love and laughter, and on Dec. 28, 2025, at the age of 75, he completed that journey, leaving a world brighter because of him.

Born Oct. 30, 1950, in Livingston, Mont., Jim, also known as "goat man" lovingly by his nieces and nephews, approached life full of enthusiasm, generosity and humor. Jim grew up in Helena and graduated from Helena High School. He believed in finding joy in every minute. Jim loved being in the outdoors, hunting, fishing, exploring, being up at the family cabin in Lincoln, happy hour every Friday evening and not being cooped up. He was also a longtime member of the Elks and served as a trustee.

Family and friends were the true measure of Jim's life. He is lovingly survived by his son Luke Funk of Butte; daughter Nikole Funk of Albuquerque; sister Judy Andrews (Ben) of Butte;  special nephews Shawn Smith (Kristina) of Belgrade and Scott Smith (Cassie) of Helena, and several nieces and nephews, and cousins. Jim is also survived by many best friends. Just to mention a few: Brad Dalin, Bob West and Mike Laird, all of Greybull; Doug Erickson of Helena, Kurt Andrews of Lakeside, Ariz., and so many more. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Mildred Funk, and one sister, Lynn Isaak.

People will remember how Jim made them feel — loved, entertained and welcomed.

In his adult life, he was a pioneer in the telecom industry, working around the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, with his last job working for TCT in Basin, Wyo. He received many accolades for his accomplishments.

Jim was awarded the Army Commendation Medal on July 4, 1973, for saving a young man from drowning in Canyon Ferry Lake, along with his lifelong friend, Dan Shepherd. It was ironic as the local newspaper reported that a drowning victim had been saved from a man who had just failed his lifeguard test. This is only one of many stories that Jim lived to tell.

A celebration of life will be announced in the spring for Greybull and Lincoln, Mont., where his ashes will be spread and where stories, laughter, and memories will be shared.

Instead of flowers, the family invites donations to any animal shelter of their choice, honoring Jim's passion for dogs.

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