Walter L. (Wally) Binder, 89, Longtime Sidney, MT Resident, Passes Away

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Walter L. (Wally) Binder, a longtime resident of Sidney, Montana, passed away on February 2, 2026, at the age of 89. Binder was born in North Dakota and spent much of his career working for the Knife River Coal Company, where he helped open the Savage, MT mine. He was active in the Savage community, serving on the school board and as a volunteer firefighter. Binder and his wife Marlys were charter members of the Bible Baptist Church in Sidney, where they moved in 1979 after his retirement.

Why it matters

Binder's life story reflects the history of the Sidney, Montana region, as he helped establish the coal mining industry in the area and was deeply involved in the local community. His passing marks the end of an era for the town, as he was a beloved figure known for his generosity, faith, and love of the outdoors.

The details

After graduating high school in Beulah, North Dakota, Binder briefly worked at the Boeing factory on the West Coast before returning home to work for his father and another local farmer. He then learned to operate heavy equipment at the Flemmer Coal Company in New Salem, North Dakota, before being hired by Knife River Coal Company in 1958. Binder was transferred to help open the Knife River Coal Mine in Savage, Montana, where he lived for over 20 years and was active in the community. He retired from Knife River after 37 years of service, then worked at the local sugar factory and as a groundskeeper at the Sidney Golf Club.

• Wally Binder was born on April 23, 1936 near Beulah, North Dakota.
• He graduated from Beulah High School in 1955.
• Binder married Marlys Flemmer on September 9, 1956.
• Daughter Leslie Kaye was born in March 1958, and son Mark Allen was born in February 1960.
• Daughter Kerri Lynn was born in November 1966.