Howard L. Leighty, 59

Howard L. Leighty, 59, a long time Troy area logger, died Monday, March 26 at the Libby Care Center. He was born to Bruce and Ilah (Smith) Leighty on January 18, 1948 at Spokane. Howard was raised and educated in Troy, graduating from Troy High School in 1966. A Viet Nam veteran, Howard entered the United States Navy in 1967 and served honorably until being discharged and returning to Troy.

As a long time veteran of the timber, logging and lumber industry, he worked with his family in the operation of Leighty Brothers Mill and Logging Company in Troy.

Howard was a fan of classic cars with his pride and joy being his 65' Vet. He had been a member of the Troy Cruzers Car Club and was a frequent participant in the Igniters Ignite the Nites car show in Libby. He also enjoyed snowmobiling and snow mobile racing as well as other outdoor activities including hunting and fishing.

Preceding him in death were his father Bruce in 1993, his mother Ilah in 2000 and brother Ron Leighty in 1996.

He is survived by his children, Darwin Leighty and wife Erin and LeeJay Leighty, all of Troy, and Michelle Leighty of Redmond, Ore, and three grandchildren: Hunter, Jayden and Jaylee as well as nieces and nephews Shinae, Breezy, Larinda and Dustin.

Services will be Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Troy Church of God with Pastor Gene Bushnell officiating. Interment services will follow at Troy Cemetery under the Direction of Nelson and Vial Funeral Home.