Gary A. Schlieve

Gary A. Schlieve, 71, passed away Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015, after a courageous battle with cancer at the Phillips County Hospital with his family at his side.

He was born in Malta, in 1944, the son of Arthur and Julia Etta Schlieve. He was one of seven siblings; Arthur Jr, Frances, Robert, Shirley, Ruby and Lorraine. He graduated from Malta High School in 1962.

In 1962 he enlisted the United States Air Force and served in Germany. Upon return home, he then served in the Montana Army National Guard, retiring in 1995. He served as a volunteer fireman while living in Glasgow, until 1994. He retired from BNSF Railroad in 2009, where he was a track inspector. A member of Elim Lutheran Church and served on the Trustee Board, he was grounds keeper for the church and willing to help with anything needed. He also worked part time at Westside until his illness.

He married his sweetheart, Erna Retan, on June 10, 1995. They made their home in Malta, enjoying son John growing up, marrying and the gift of two grandchildren. He loved fishing, hunting and his wonderful garden and barbecues that he shared with everyone.

He was preceded in death by his parents Arthur and J Etta Schlieve; one brother, Arthur Schlieve Jr .; and three sisters, Frances Larson, Shirley Kirkham and Ruby Kroll.

Survivors include his loving wife, Erna; a son, John Retan and his wife, Danielle; two grandchildren, Landon and Ali Retan; a brother, Robert Schlieve and his wife, Gloria of Yuma, Ariz .; a sister, Lorraine Watson and her husband, Tom; a sister-in-law, Eden Looten; a brother-in-law, Al Kroll; and many loved and cherished nieces, nephews and great-nieces and -nephews.

He will be remembered as being generous, kind and caring. He was always the first to volunteer for veterans' services. He will be dearly missed by his family and many friends.

At his request, graveside services were held Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 10 a.m. at the Malta Cemetery, with military honors and interment of his ashes. Condolences for the family may be left at http://www.kirkwoodfuneralhome.com.