Elton Ray Hodgson, 79

Elton Ray Hodgson, 79, passed away March 12, 2014, at his home in Helena, Mont., surrounded by his family after a three-month battle with cancer.

The family will hold a celebration of Ray’s life in Bonners Ferry when his grandson Dylan returns from his deployment in Afghanistan.

Ray was born on May 11, 1934, to Merl and Verna (Pugh) Hodgson in Bonners Ferry, Idaho. Ray attended Bonners Ferry High School, but left before completing his senior year to go logging and work construction.

On June 7, 1958, Ray married Barbara (Jody) Hodgson in Bonners Ferry. He logged for various companies from 1954 thru 1983 and also worked construction for various companies from 1984 thru 2000.

Ray’s favorite job was working for Centerline Construction in Rathdrum, Idaho. Ray loved music and played several different musical instruments by ear. Ray and his mother played and wrote songs together. Ray’s sister, Ellen, and niece Stacy, learned and played these songs for Ray in his final days.

Ray is survived by his wife Jody, Helena; son Mike Hodgson, Athol; John (Gerianne) Hodgson, Post Falls, Idaho; Debra (John) Vanscyoc, Athol; Ralene (Gary) Wilson, Helena; grandchildren Jodeen Wilson, Janelle Wilson, and Jamie Wilson all from Helena; Kyle Hodgson and Garrett Hodgson, Athold; Dylan Hodgson and Cody Hodgson, Post Falls; sisters Jenny (Don) Lovell, Ione, Wash., Linda Reffert of Oregon and Ellen Berlfein, Texas.

Ray was preceded in death by his father Merl Hodgson; mother, Verna Hodgson; son Steven Ray Hodgson and daughter Jodeen Ellen Hodgson.

To offer condolences, please visit www.helenafunerals.com