Peter Keith Kringen was born on December 18, 1928, in Fairview, Montana. He was the son of Marie Swanson Kringen and Peter I. Kringen. He was the youngest of 4 children, joining older sisters Pearl, Lucille, and Kathleen.

His father died in 1940 from a heart attack, forcing the family to have a sale and move from the farm into Fairview. His mother eventually remarried Vern Gardner. A brief time later they moved to Snohomish, Washington. Pete said he liked Snohomish. He worked in a theater as a “popcorn boy,” and enjoyed fishing in the Columbia River. They eventually came back to Montana for a visit, and Pete decided to stay with his sister Lucille and her husband. When Lucille moved, he came to Sidney. He worked at the elevator and the Sidney Locker and Creamery. He then drove a truck for John King trucking. In late 1950, he was drafted into the army. He served from 1951-1953. In 1954, he returned to Fairview, and married his sweetheart, Betty Eckart. Three daughters joined the family, Kathy, Sandra, and Michelle. Eventually settling south of Sidney, Pete worked for Farmers Union Transportation for 23 plus years. He then purchased his own truck and hauled fuel for a few years.

Pete enjoyed visiting with people, reading western novels, collecting guns, hunting, and spending time with family. A few treasured memories were trail rides, & family camping weekends.

Peter peacefully passed away on Monday, October 21, 2024, at the Sidney Health Center in Sidney, MT with family by his side.

Surviving family members are daughters Michelle (Jim) Campbell of Shepherd MT and Sandra (Brian) Ligon of Lambert, MT; grandchildren Brandon (Desirae) Ligon and Aranda (Lee) Taylor; and great grandchildren Bridger Ligon, Kynley Ligon, Carson Taylor and Owen Taylor.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; daughter Kathy; parents Peter (Marie) Kringen and stepfather Vern Gardner; mother-in-law Amelia Eckart; and sisters Pearl, Lucille, Kathleen and their spouses Morris, Myron, and Glen.

Memorial Contribution