Charles "Chuck" Joseph Dirkson

Charles “Chuck” Joseph Dirkson, 86, of Hobson passed away Sunday, July 21, 2024, at his residence in Hobson. He was born July 24, 1937, in Lewistown to his parents Raymond and Sylvia (Hoven) Dirkson. Chuck spent his youth on the family farm outside Hobson, MT working alongside his parents and five siblings. Even in the years leading up to his death, Chuck spoke fondly of the lessons of farm life. The entirety of his school years was spent attending Hobson Public School sharing a class with his brother Jerry, they graduated together in 1955. After graduation, Chuck attended one year of college but ultimately decided to enlist and serve in the Navy. After three years stationed in San Diego, Chuck returned to central Montana. He worked several manual and labor jobs until settling in as a Lineman with Montana Power, where he worked for over 30 years.

For the next 20 years, Chuck drove the bus for the Hobson School District. In that time, he became a trusted chauffeur for countless kids always offering friendly smiles and words of encouragement. Chuck was a man determined to provide hard work each day. He assisted many farmers through the community providing an extra set of hands anytime assistance was needed. He took pride in being reliable.

Chuck also took time to practice many hobbies, his favorite being snowmobile racing with his youngest son Chuckie. It wasn’t uncommon to see Chuck offering his advice to fellow hobbyists, usually helping them with direction on speed! In more recent years, his love of tinkering was spent, shoulder to shoulder with his son, Brian, finding work to tackle together. 

 On August 13th, 2005, two families were brought together when Chuck married the love of his life, Anna Marie. In their 18 years of marriage, you hardly saw them apart. The pair enjoyed hopping in “ol’ blue” and exploring the mountainside, commenting on progress and sharing stories of their younger days. Chuck knew the mountains like the back of his hand and had a memory through every curve of the road. The afternoon ended with a casual date at the Oxen Yoke Inn in Utica. Many days were spent traveling to see Chuck's siblings and children, ensuring they were all sharing their precious time.

Chuck lived a life full of intention, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and determination. In nearly 87 years, he not only witnessed the progress of the world; he contributed to it. He spoke often of his hand in bringing power to the rural central Montana areas and recalled the chatter of party lines. He served on Search and Rescue, and received The Live Saving Award, from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers for saving a young man’s life on March 25, 1985.

Chuck witnessed 14 Presidencies, The Great Space Race, and the first man landing on the moon. He saw the progression of technology from telephones in homes being a rare commodity to watching the news of the world being held in his hand. Chuck took each moment of witness as an opportunity to learn, offering his wisdom and experience graciously whenever given the opportunity. Riding with Chuck was like sitting next to the world’s greatest tour guide, he knew the land and had a story to offer, no matter what country road you traveled. He had a heart of gold, a smile that would brighten each day, and hugs that will be forever missed. He was “Papa” to 10 Children, 22 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Each one was captivated by the love and gentleness he exuded every day. We have all learned Chuck was meticulous in every move he made, ensuring this life without him would be easy for those he loved. He loved fiercely, sacrificed hard, and always provided us with an example of a true and honest gentleman.

Chuck is survived by his wife Anna Marie, all his siblings Ted (Irene) Dirkson, Joe (Pat) Dirkson, Jerry (Sharron) Dirkson, Kenny (Marcie) Dirkson, Diana (Brian) Zinns, his living children include Brian Dirkson, Sharla LaFountain, Charles Dirkson Jr., James Fenton, Renee (Brent) Maynard, Jennifer (Dave) Bartel, Dawn (Dustin) Harmon, Beth (Jay) Griffith. 22 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in Death By his parents Raymond and Sylvia Dirkson; his children Brian Hoven, Brent Dirkson, and Betsy VanRaam; and his wife Katie Dirkso.

Services for Chuck will be held at Hobson Public School on Wednesday, August 7th at 11:00 AM, interment will immediately follow at Philbrook Cemetery. 

In Lieu of flowers please donate to the Hobson Rural Fire Department or Judith Basin County Search and Rescue.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cloyd Funeral Home. Condolences for the family may be posted online at www.cloydfuneralhome.com.