Dennis Murnion

Dennis C. Murnion of Shawmut was the victim of a violent crime on May 7, 2023 at his home. Dennis was born February 8, 1958 in Jordan, MT to James and Marion Murnion. He was the sixth of thirteen children. Dennis went to grade school and middle school in Jordan before the family moved to the family ranch north of Shawmut. Dennis went to high school in Harlowton and was a gifted athlete at Harlo High School playing football and running track. He still holds the two mile record in track.

After graduating high school, Dennis worked as a boilermaker in ND and married Kim Reimer. Of this union two children were born, Craig and Jenna. He also worked as a boilermaker in Colstrip for many years. Dennis and Kim later divorced.

In 1983, Dennis sustained a head injury that would dramatically affect the rest of his life. He was able to function well, but lost the ability to reason with people, the ability to communicate well, and the injury caused extreme disorganization in his mind on a daily basis. He also lost his taste and smell. He purchased land and built a modest cabin by the family ranch north of Shawmut. He raised a small band on sheep on his land. He also spent many years helping his aging parents with fencing, predator control, and other ranch duties.

Dennis loved to run and could often be seen running the county road. He entered running competitions throughout the state and was very successful in his age group. Dennis had a Harley and loved riding his Harley. He loved playing three-handed pinochle or cribbage and was very skilled at both. He also had a passion for rocks and would spend hours upon hours collecting rocks and built beautiful rock fences by his home.

Dennis would befriend anyone and offer his help to anyone that was in need. He had a very kind and giving heart. He was a true patriot and loved his country. He believed in God and was always willing to have a spiritual discussion. He had several faithful dogs over the years that were always by his side.

Survivors are his children, Craig Murnion of Billings, and Jenna Coburn of Helena. Grandchildren Justin, Schelbe, Brendyn, Ashtyn, of Billings; Dante and Anabelle of Helena. And former daughter-in-law Mandy of Billings. Siblings JoAnn (Steve) of Hardin, Tim (Paula) of Shawmut, Barry (Mary) of Chinook, Marcie (Randy) of Three Forks, Bart (Kaia) of KY, Mark (MaryLou) of Roundup, Mick (Annette) of Shepherd, David (Jacqueline) of Forest Grove, Cathy (Mark) of Ryegate, and Patty (James) of Chester. Also numerous nephews and nieces.

He was predeceased by his mother, Marion; father, James; brother, Tom; nephew, Justin; and brother Michael.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 27, 2023 at 11:00 am with burial at the family cemetery. If donations are desired, please contribute to your local VFW or any conservative organization. Condolences for the family may be posted on-line at www.perkinsfuneralandcremation.com