Scott Arkell, 50

Scott was born in Butte on October 29, 1971, to Jim and Thelma Arkell and was welcomed by his eight siblings to the home in Whitehall that he grew up in. Scott was born with a heart murmur and had his heart valves replaced several years ago. He passed away unexpectedly at his home in Whitehall on January 8; his loving heart finally giving up.

As a kid, he spent his days riding his bike around town with his friends. He wrestled in the AAU youth program and wrestled and played football for the Trojans. Thanks to Whitehall High School Industrial Arts and Photography teacher Tom Wheeler, Scott had a great passion for photography. Mr. Wheeler's influence also led Scott to attend Helena Vo-Tech for construction/carpentry. Scott had an eye for scenic vistas, and many are fortunate to have his photos.

Scott married Danielle Chadwick and they were blessed with a son, Christopher Scott. Chris was the center of Scott's life, and they hunted, hiked, and rode ATVs as often as they could get together. Scott adored his daughter-in-law April and her son, Ryan Lucero.

Scott worked several summers for the USFS, maintaining trails and fighting wildfires. He worked the past 20-plus years for various building supply stores and truss plants, driving and loading trucks. He enjoyed playing trivia and darts with his many Whitehall friends.

Scott was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his son, Chris, daughter-in-law, April, and step-grandson, Ryan, all of Billings; siblings Don (Connie) of Clancy; Vince (Debbie) of Bozeman; Roy (Dawn) of Huson; Ray of Helmville; Ava Meine of Dillon; Ruby (Joey Grisafe) of Whitehall; Sharon (Jim Misale) of Missoula; and Ed (Tonya) of Missoula; nine nieces and nephews; 12 great-nieces and nephews; and local cousins Beverly Cook of Butte, and Bob, Carl, and Russell Crowe of Whitehall.

A celebration of Scott's life will be held on Saturday, February 5, at 2 pm at The Mint in Whitehall. A light lunch will be provided.