Peter James Rummel died at his home in East Helena on Monday, November 24, 2025. He was born on February 4, 1950 in Hamilton, Montana, to Clyde and Verda Rummel.   He joined older sister Linda.  Brother Carl and sister Julie later completed the family.

Pete graduated from Corvallis High School in 1969 and attended Northern Montana College, studying drafting.

Pete was a hard worker.    As a teen, he worked on the family ranch, and helped out his nearby grandparents.   Pete worked as a millwright for many years in the timber industry in Missoula.  In 1991 Pete relocated his family to East Helena, where he worked at Ash Grove Cement Plant until his retirement in 2012.

Pete married Donna Mae Knutson April 10, 1975.   Pete proudly raised Donna's two sons, Michael and Steven, as his own.  They were joined later by their son, Jeremy.   Donna passed away in January 2025, after a brief illness.  They were married just a few months shy of 50 years.   Pete missed her immensely, and often said she was his best friend.

Pete loved all things outdoors:  hunting and fishing.   Pete not only bagged wild game, he would butcher it, can it, smoke it and cook it.  He had a special recipe for Smoked Summer Sausage that was enjoyed and devoured by friends and family.   Pete taught Hunters Safety for several years in Lolo, and was always happy to share what he knew.

Pete spent some of his best days fishing in the boat, either with his boys or friends.   Fishing was a common topic, even in his final days. In his retirement years, Pete enjoyed cooking and gardening.   You were fortunate if you were a recipient of a jar of Pete's pickled beets or serving of stuffed peppers.

Pete was an ingenuous and clever craftsman.   He was always looking for ways to get things done better, quicker or easier.   He fabricated tools when he couldn't find one to do the job.   He was a skilled welder and made many signs for friends and family.

Pete was a no BS type of guy and was genuine with everyone.  He had a big heart and was always kind to others.  He was quick witted and brought a smile to others whenever he went.

In addition to his wife, Donna, he was preceded in death his parents, Clyde and Verda Rummel, and brother-in-law Larry Niezgodzki.  He is survived by his sons, Jeremy, Steve and Michael, brother Carl (Annette) Rummel, sisters Linda Niezgodzki and Julie Rummel, granddaughter Tori Dess, grandson Damon Taylor, and several great grandchildren.

Pete suffered from bone cancer for over 12 years.  He was a fighter and kept pushing thru, although he was often in tremendous pain.    He was loved and will be missed.

At his request, no services will be held.    Memorials are suggested to support cancer or Parkinson's research.