Gary Dean Foster passed away January 24, 2024 at home in Helena.

He was born to George and Esteline Foster in Falls City, Nebraska in 1939, an enrolled member of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska.

His family moved to California where he was raised and met his wife Rita. They moved to Montana in 1966 to raise their children and build their life together. Gary worked as a painting contractor, and in several positions working with Native Americans, including the Helena Indian Alliance. He retired from Carroll College as a painter.

He always said that everything good was because of Rita and that the best his kids could do was use him as a role model of what not to do. He was a character and his absence will be felt by all who knew him.

He lost his beloved Rita in 2011 but is survived by their children Lance (Lisa) Foster, Garth (Gloria) Foster, Bryan Foster, Brandi (Kevin) Brockbank, and Amber (Scott) Ireland.  He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Eamonn, Dempsey and Lily, who he thought as the best of what humans could be, bestowing much nonsense for them to carry the rest of their lives. He is also survived by his younger brother John and his family and by a multitude of friends but especially his good buddy Bill.

We will not be having a formal service but his children will say an official goodbye to him in the mountains this summer. In lieu of flowers, do the same that we asked for our mom and take a moment to tell those that you love how much they mean to you. If you want to remember Gary, simply step outside and breathe in the fresh air and take the time to notice the flowers and birdsong. Our dad would love that.

Simple Cremation Montana has assisted the family.