William Van Setten

William J. "Bill" Van Setten, of Choteau, passed away from natural causes on February 3, 2020 at his home in Farmington with family, he was 85 years young. He was born February 25, 1934 to John and Gertrude (Luinstra) Van Setten in Choteau, Montana, and he lived there until May 1941 when his mother passed away. After graduating high school in 1952, he continued to work on the Tommy Larson Ranch north of Choteau and was a seasonal heavy equipment operator for Getter Construction. He was drafted into the Army in 1956 and sent to Korea with the 2nd Infantry Division. After his return, he served in the Montana Army National Guard.

Bill met his best friend Joan Birdeau and married her on October 7, 1962. They began their family and life's journey together in Fairfield, MT until 1972 when Bill transferred from Greenfield's Irrigation District to the Columbia Irrigation District in Warden, Washington until 1974. The family returned to the area by purchasing a home in Farmington, which has been the family home since. Bill continued his employment with Greenfield's Irrigation District until his 30 year retirement in 1990, after a long bout with cancer.

Bill was known for his impeccable work ethic, outgoing personality, and always joking around with family and friends. He loved to play cards, dance and listen to country music and most of all upland bird hunting with his children and friends. Bill was preceded in death by his wife Joan Birdeau Van Setten, sister Marlene (Jim) McCampbell, son Dennis Van Setten, and granddaughter Zayne Hansen.

Bill is survived by his daughter Pamela Van Setten Hansen, foster daughter Mary Richards, sons Bill "Willie" (Jill) Van Setten, Ben Van Setten, and John Van Setten, 7 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Interment services were Friday February 7, 2020 at Choteau Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's name can be made to the Choteau Senior Center.

Condolences may be left on-line at www.gorderjensenfuneralhome.com