Donald Eugene Malsam

Donald Eugene Malsam, age 86, was born on October 28, 1939, in Havre, Montana, and passed away peacefully at his home in Billings, Montana, on December 31, 2025.

Don was a devoted husband, father, and a cherished friend to many. He attended Miller Grade School and Havre Central High School in his hometown. After briefly attending Montana College, Don proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1958 to 1962, with two additional years of active duty during the Vietnam era. He was honorably discharged in 1964, having served aboard the USS Sperry as an FTC with the rank of E5.

Don built a successful career with Mutual of Omaha, earning a 25-year service award and retiring after 27 years. In retirement, he dedicated his time to the American Legion Post 374 in Millard, Nebraska, where he commanded both the Veterans Honor Guard and Color Guard, and served as Post Commander for two years.

Known affectionately as the “World’s Greatest Storyteller,” Don was the family historian and a natural leader. He was passionate about baseball—especially the Cleveland Indians and Kansas City Royals—and cheered for the Montana Grizzlies, Navy/Army, Green Bay Packers, Notre Dame, and Nebraska Huskers in football. Don enjoyed golfing with friends Kim and John, as well as deer hunting.

A problem-solver at heart, Don was always ready to help—often finding solutions after a good night’s sleep. He held various other jobs, including stand-by utilities locator for Great Plains, working on a drill rig in his 60s, surveying with his brother-in-law Dennis “Chip” Engelke, and delivering for Omaha Office Supply. He also lent his voice to commercials and farm brochures until age 65, when he and Dianne retired to Billings, Montana.

In Billings, Don continued his service as Veterans Honor Guard Leader and Organizer at American Legion Post 4.

Don was preceded in death by his first wife of 28 years, Barbara Malsam; his parents, Joseph and Mary Marie; brothers, Joey and LeRoy; sister-in-law, Carla (Gary) Malsam; and his daughter, Shelli Marie, who passed on December 31, 2024.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Dianne Malsam; sons and stepsons Kurt (Karin), Craig, and Chris(fiancé Jennifer Dowd) Malsam, and Douglas and Shane (Carie) Wilson; grandsons Ethan, Cole, Brett (Courtney), Trey (Anne), Kevin, Austin, Thomas, Layden, and Kolton; granddaughters Montana (Brad) Chilton, Taylor (Jordan) Elkins, Kylie Malsam (Luke), Braelyn, and Tegan; seven great-grandchildren, with an eighth on the way; brothers Gary and Rick (Jodie); sisters-in-law Leslie (LeRoy) Malsam and Darlene (Joey) Malsam; and many nieces and nephews.

A vigil will be held at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary on Thursday, January 8, at 6 p.m. The Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, January 9, at 11 a.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church, followed by interment at Yellowstone National Cemetery. A gathering will be held Friday evening at 6 p.m. at the American Legion on 15th at Broadwater.

Flowers and memorials may be sent to Michelotti-Sawyers.