Levi Lee Loyning, 29

Levi Lee Loyning, 29, was born Nov. 16, 1976, and passed away at his home Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2006.

Levi was born in Forsyth to Debra and Geary Loyning. He grew up in Colstrip and graduated from high school in 1995.

After graduating, Levi traveled around a bit, working in construction, but always came home to Montana. He moved to the Flathead Valley in 1999. He loved working in this valley and being outdoors was his happiness, whether at work or down at the river.

Levi was a very talented young man, and a gifted artist who had dreams of being a pilot and flying one day. His brother-in-law Gary took him on his first flight and will greatly miss him.

Levi married the love of his life, Leeann Barlow, on June 29, 2001. He was more than just a stepfather to her two children, Krista and Michael; he was a best friend, and the greatest grandpa ever to baby Kayleigh.

Levi was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jay Asay; and aunt, Tina Asay.

He is survived by his wife, Leeann, stepchildren, Krista and Michael, and granddaughter, Kayleigh, all of Kalispell; and his father- and mother-in-law, Jerry and Sally Barlow, of Kalispell; his mother, Debra Loyning, and brothers, Paul, Shawn and Travis Loyning, all of Colstrip; father, Geary Loyning, of Boise, Idaho; a very special niece, Halle Loyning, of Idaho; grandmother, Grace Asay, uncle, Jay Asay, aunt, Tony, uncle, Russ Renner, and cousins, Cassi and Courtney, all of Wyoming; grandparents, George and Bonnie Loyning, of Powell, Wyo.; and other aunts and uncles.

Levi touched many lives with just one smile. He was his mother's little "Levi Lee, blue jeans baby" and his brothers were his best friends. He loved them dearly.

"We love you Levi. We miss you deeply. God is with you now."

Services will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home.

Memorials are suggested to be sent c/o Jerry and Sally Barlow, 254 Coclet Lane, Kalispell, MT 59901.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.