Joe Ferguson, 71
May 22, 1949 – May 14, 2021
Joseph Francis Ferguson passed away unexpectedly at his home in Anaconda, May 14, 2021. Born one of four siblings to Scotty and Aileen (McGinley) Ferguson, Joe lived out his entire life in the same neighborhood in which he grew up, in his hometown, in the corner of Montana he loved the most.
Joe’s Mom claimed he was born with a smile on his face on a sunny afternoon in May. That unfailing smile never left his countenance as he navigated the simple and generous lifestyle he chose. A man of faithful and long-lasting commitments, Joe married Colleen Caulfield at Holy Family Catholic Church thirty-seven years ago.
Wildlife biologist by degree, Joe embraced the beauty of the outdoors in every season. Able to identify every wildflower, every insect, every animal track, Joe hiked and camped, hunted and fished, skied and biked, winter or summer with partners of all ages from all walks of life.
Mailman by trade, Joe enjoyed a busy work life at Montana State Hospital, starting out over forty-five years ago on the house cleaning crew and ultimately transferring to the mailroom where he remained an employee to date. His patient attention to detail and gentle approachable demeanor lent itself to every conversation and to every task undertaken.
Always optimistic, never judgmental and deeply respectful of others, Joe exuded a sense of safety and well-being wherever he went. His influence, rooted in kindness and deep insight stays with his large loving family, his countless trusting friends and a planet, the better for his coming this way.
Joe is survived by wife, Colleen and her extended family; brother and sister-in-law, Terry and Mary Jean Ferguson and family; sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and Jackie Ivankovich and family; the family of deceased sister, Jane Paddock; and a large close knit extended family.
To honor Joe, an outdoor Mass and gathering will be announced later this summer.
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral & Cremation Service is entrusted with Joe’s funeral arrangements. You may pay your condolences at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.
Published by The Montana Standard on May 28, 2021.
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