Donald Ralph Hampa, 87

Donald R Hampa passed peacefully on November 4, 2024, in Butte. Donald was born on November 23, 1936, to Louise and Ralph Hampa in Whitehall, Montana, where he grew up and graduated from high school.

In high school, Donald worked at the Lewis and Clark Caverns alongside his Uncle Mel during the summers, enjoying every minute. At 17, he was asked to try out for a baseball farm team in Seattle, but life got in the way, and he did not go. He played 3rd base and outfield positions. Then, at 18, he joined the U.S. Navy. Later, he attended Western Montana College in Dillon, where he played the trombone. He achieved his BS in Education. He worked at KBOW radio as a DJ, “Dizzy Don,” and at Bob and Joe’s Distributing in Butte to raise funds for his education.

While living and working in Butte, he met the love of his life, Sandra Garrison, who he married on November 19, 1961. Over the years, they would lovingly raise five children: Lori Lea, Jeffery Lawrence, Susan Marie, Becky Jo, and Andrew Jay.

For 31 years, he taught elementary, 6th, and 5th grades at various schools in Libby and Butte, including Webster Garfield, Margaret Leary, Greeley, and Whittier. He was a very creative teacher, teamed with other teachers, took his classes to Yellowstone National Park, and taught his students how to pan for gold, press flowers, collect bugs, and “cast 9s.” Former students still talk about math games they played.

Also, during those years, he played in Butte City league volleyball, achieved his Master’s in Education, sang in the choir at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, and worked part-time at Bob and Joe’s, Jolly Jack’s, and Thompson’s Distributing companies. He and his family enjoyed camping throughout the summers and frequent family gatherings. From 1990-1992, he and Sandra took a 2-year break to teach for the Department of Defense Schools in Nurenburg, Germany, at the U.S. Army post, William O. Darby. It proved to be such an excellent experience that after retiring from the Butte school system in 1996, they returned to teach for DODS, serving three years at Sassabo, Japan, at U.S. Navy Base, and five years in Naples, Italy, at the United Nations southern Navy Headquarters. They traveled the world from all three of their posts, favoring Italy.

Returning to Butte in 2004 to fully retire, Donald joined the Lions Club, serving in various leadership positions, and alongside them, tested the eyes of young school and daycare children, as well as 6-month-old infants, around Butte and the surrounding area. He served on food wagons with the Lions at local events and served coffee and cookies at local rest stops.

When he entered assisted living at Copper Ridge, he told the social director that he wanted to be the leader of the band or musical conductor. His time playing the trombone made a positive and lasting impact. Over his adult life, he remained an active congregant at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, seldom missing a Sunday service. His greatest pride and joy was his family.

Donald is preceded in death by his son, Jeffery. He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra, and their children: Lori & Dan Hampa-Chamberlin of Whitefish; Susan & Brian Miller of Butte; Becky & Tony Hockaday of Anaconda; and Andrew Hampa of Butte. His nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren: Sydney & Nathanael Armbruster, and Noah, Jacob, Eli, and Eden of Germany; Taylor Miller (Ashley) of Missoula; Garrett, LeeAnne and Freyaj Miller of Butte; Emily Miller (Isiah) of Billings; Cody, Natalie, Leo and Miles of Anaconda; Nicole, Pat and Easton and Brody Hunter of Butte; Katelynn & Matt, and Mason Ralph of Bozeman, Kelsey & Kortney Hampa of Butte.

His brothers, Bud & Nancy Hampa of Helena, Doug & Nancy Pederson of Boise, and his sister, Sherri Adolphson of Missouri. Also, brother-in-law Dale & Delilah Garrison of Butte, and sister-in-law Elaine & Greg Wolstein of Butte, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A man’s life can be measured by his impact on others; few leave a legacy as rich and meaningful as someone who dedicates themselves to teaching. Donald’s life inspired so many, not only because of his wisdom and knowledge but because of his kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to shaping the future. His hard work and care for everyone he encountered showed his dedication to his profession and the betterment of the lives around him. Through his teaching, he didn’t just educate; he inspired, nurtured, and guided others toward becoming the best versions of themselves. Thank you, Dad.

His family expresses special thanks to all the staff at The Copper Ridge and Honey Bee Hospice for all of their loving care. We are forever grateful for your care and compassion.

Don’s funeral ceremony occurred at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Butte on Saturday, November 9th, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests any donations to your chosen charity.