Thoralf "Sonny" Moline, Jr.

Thoralf “Sonny” Moline, Jr. died on January 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born August 11, 1935 in Denton, Montana, the son of Thoralf “Alf” and Mary (Owens) Moline.

 Sonny graduated from Geraldine High School, Class of 1954. Following graduation, Sonny went to work at Ford Motors in Geraldine as a mechanic. While working in Geraldine he met Patricia Molzhon from Ronan, Montana, who was working at a local restaurant. Patricia’s sister was insistent upon the introduction, and she was RIGHT! Sonny and Pat began dating and they were married in Geraldine on October 8, 1957. In October of 2024 Pat and Sonny celebrated 67 years of marriage.

 In 1961 Sonny and Pat moved to Lewistown where Sonny continued working as a mechanic at Lewistown Motors. During that time Sonny was also a part-paid fireman for the Lewistown Fire Department. In 1966 a spark was ignited as Sonny joined the department as a mechanic and began climbing his way to Fire Chief in 1979. During his firefighting career, Sonny was the Deputy State Fire Marshal and a Grade I Fire Training Instructor. He also trained numerous local Fire Departments. In 1988, after many dedicated hours, Sonny hung up his Fire Helmet and retired. However, retirement brought new adventures and endeavors. Sonny with the assistance of two of his son’s opened Big Sky Fire in 1987. Once that business was fully established Sonny and another son opened Central Lock and Security in 1997. In retirement, Sonny helped establish two successful businesses which are owned and operated by his children and grandchildren.

 Sonny was a member of numerous organizations which included the Eagles Club, since 1972, Arson Investigators, MT Fire Chiefs Association, Civil Air Patrol and a Life Member of the NRA.

 Sonny was an avid outdoorsman who loved camping, hunting and fishing with his children and grandchildren. Even though he wasn’t able to actively participate in the last few years the stories will continue to live on along with the memories and adventures. Another pastime for Sonny and Pat was traveling. For eleven years Pat and Sonny enjoyed traveling. Their first expedition was in a Motorhome to Alaska. The “touring” bug was not quenched, and soon they were traveling to Arizona during the winter months sporting a travel trailer!

 In addition to his parents Mary and Thoralf “Alf”, Sr., Sonny was predeceased by his stepmother, Opal Moline, brothers; Dale Moline, Danny Strate, Jim Hardenbrook, Mike Hayworth, sisters; Mary Strate Wishman Silvus, Ethel (Toots) Hardenbrook Zimmerman and Alice Hardenbrook.

 Surviving, in addition to his wife, Patricia (Molzhon) Moline; are his sons Joseph (Renita), Anthony (Robin), Michael (Lisa), Timothy (Karmen Tesarek) and Mark Moline; daughter, Karen (Larry) Phillips; sisters Selma “Scooter” (Del) Hayworth Pasha, Deanna (Steve) Michels; brothers Gene (Caryn) Strate, Wes Hayworth, Patrick (JoAnn) Hayworth and Herbert (Polly) Hayworth; sister-in-law Judy Hayworth; Grandchildren Mathea (Tim) Mulally, Tyler and Cameron Moline, Kyle (Courtney) Moline, Kristine (Nick) Ophus, Jamie (Ryan) Doty, Makayla (Chris) Jolly, Taylor (Kris Schaff) Scott, Austin (Tace) Phillips, Jenaye (Taylor) Butcher, Kylie and Kami Moline, Kaelynn, Cody and Kasey Moline; 18 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

 Sonny, thanks for the love and memories! We love you and will miss you. We appreciate all who have gathered with us today and have supported us through this difficult time, we thank you. Your kindness and thoughtfulness will not be forgotten.

 A luncheon in memory of Sonny will be at 11:30 a.m. in the St. Leo’s Church Commons, located in the Parish basement, followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m. Friday, February 7, 2025 at St. Leo’s Catholic Church, Lewistown, MT. Those who wish to remember Sonny in a special way may make gifts in his memory to Central Montana Jr. Rifle Club or CMMC Foundation ℅ CMMC Acute Care.

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