Dean Schillinger, Longtime Montana Farmer, Dies at 78

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Dean Lenord Schillinger, a lifelong farmer and rancher from Circle, Montana, passed away on February 4, 2026, at the age of 78. Schillinger grew up in Billings, attended parochial school and Billings Senior High, and later enlisted in the Montana National Guard. He spent his adult life farming and ranching north of Circle, and was involved in the local Soil Conservation Board and National Farmers Organization.

Why it matters

Schillinger's passing marks the end of an era for the tight-knit farming community north of Circle, where he was known as a dedicated steward of the land and a respected voice on agricultural practices. His commitment to improving farming techniques and supporting local organizations underscores the vital role that family-owned farms and ranches continue to play in rural Montana.

The details

Schillinger married Laraine Loney in 1973, and they had two children - a son, Tanner, born in 1987, and a daughter, Kali, born in 1989. He was actively involved in his children's high school sports and rodeo careers, in addition to his work on the farm and ranch. Schillinger was known for his expertise in soil conditions, crop rotation, and weather patterns, earning him the nickname 'the local weatherman' among his neighbors and friends.

• Schillinger was born on April 16, 194.
• He graduated from Billings Senior High School in 1966.
• Schillinger enlisted in the Montana National Guard in 1969.
• He married Laraine Loney on November 10, 1973.
• Schillinger's son Tanner was born in 1987, and his daughter Kali was born in 1989.
• Schillinger retired from farming and ranching in 2023.
• Schillinger passed away on February 4, 2026.

What’s next

A memorial service for Dean Schillinger will be held on Tuesday, February 17, at 1 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Circle, Montana.