John C. Rorvik, age 74, of Nashua passed away December 20 at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Billings with his family by his side. John was born March 1, 1947 to Carl and Margaret “Peggy” (Burman) Rorvik in Wolf Point, Montana. He was the eldest of eight children and took the responsibility of being the oldest to heart. He cared so much about his younger siblings. The family moved a few times in John’s early years as their homes of log seemed destined to catch fire. The family finally built a block house and remained there for several years dry land farming. John and his school aged siblings walked daily to the Illmont School through the 8th grade that was about two miles away. He then ventured off to Vancouver his freshman year, staying with his Aunt Aggie and Uncle LeRoy, where he was introduced to the Mormon faith. He then returned home to help with the farm and finished up his remaining school years attending his sophomore year in Circle and then finishing out his last two years of high school in Nashua where he graduated in 1965. After graduating John enlisted in the Army, going to Germany and then on to Vietnam. He told us many stories of being a mechanic there and of crazy helicopter rides as he was lifted across the country being asked to go fix tanks or other broken down machinery. He returned home in 1969. John was very proud of his service to our country and of his lifelong membership in the VFW.
John married Donna Rees on June 13, 1970. They began their life together out on the Rees homestead where he worked for Harold until he was able to buy their own land outside of Nashua. John worked hard to expand their operation and instill his love for the land and farming/ranching into his kids through what we all lovingly call our home today – “Rorville”. John’s home was always open and you would often see sisters, brothers, or even nieces and nephews staying for short and sometimes even long periods of time. John worked hard all his life – not only on his farm but also for other custom baling and hauling when he could. Even in “retirement” from his “south” mail route you would see him working cows, baling hay, irrigating, or repairing a broken down piece of machinery. When he wasn’t working John enjoyed watching the old western tv shows, the Weather Channel, and the Ag reports. He also loved fishing and going to watch his grandchildren play sports. He also always looked forward to the gambling trips he and Donna took with their very good friends Ron and Pat.
John is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Jim Rorvik, and a sister, Jennie Rorvik.
John is survived by his wife, Donna of 51 years of Nashua; their three children: Janice (Tim) of Fort Peck, Wesley (Teresa) of Nashua, and Jeffery (Kayla) of Nashua; his three grandchildren, whom he was so very proud of: Tia, Reese, and Carson; his siblings: Jerre, Jesse, Judy, Jean, and Janet plus numerous other nieces and nephews.
Wanda Dale says
So very sorry for your loss`. John was a great guy.
Malcolm Soare says
He was our mail carrier for years, and we looked forward to his deliveries, and his visits. He was quite a person. Our sympathies to Donna, Janet and his family.
Malcolm and Roberta Soare
Rock Creek
Louise Twitchell says
Sorry for your loss. John will be missed by many
Terry and Muriel Burt says
I worked with John and Donna for years at the Glasgow post office. They were great co-workers but even better people. Always ready to pitch in with a smile on their faces. So sorry for your loss. Thinking of you Donna and the entire Rorvik family.
Jeff johnon says
We are so sorry! John was such a wonderful person.
Rick McGarvey says
John was a great friend and classmate at Nashua. The Class of ’65 has another great guy.
Diane Ligon says
Dear Donna and all your family,
I am so sorry to hear about John. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time. May all your wonderful memories of him be always near your hearts.
Jane Glasoe says
Rorvik Family: I am so sorry to hear of your loss of 2 family members.
Sharon Flom says
So sorry for your loss
Clark and Shannon Simpfenderfer says
Clark and Shannon just want to say that your Family is in our Thoughts and Prayers today as you remember John. It is with heart-felt sympathy that we offer our condolences for your loss.
Melinda Tangen says
Donna and family, Aunt Judy, Janet, Jess, Jean, I’m sorry for your loss. John was a wonderful person. With the loss of two brothers, there will be a huge hole in your families. My prayers are with you all.
Karen and clay taylor says
So very sorry to hear this sad news. Prayers sent