Carl Wendell Trihub, Jr.

Carl Wendell Trihub, Jr. passed away on March 5, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on June 5, 1934, in Harvey, North Dakota, he was the only son among seven sisters and grew up on the family farm near Keif. The demanding life and harsh winters of rural North Dakota instilled in him a strong work ethic that defined him throughout his years.

Carl served honorably in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958, stationed in Germany, where he earned expert marksmanship qualifications in rifle, pistol, and submachine gun. After his military service, he returned to North Dakota and began a long career as a skilled bricklayer. A dedicated member of the Bricklayers Union, he was widely respected for his craftsmanship and reliability. Among the projects he took greatest pride in were the Garrison Dam in North Dakota, the Federal Building in downtown Bozeman, numerous buildings on the MSU campus, and schools across the state. He retired from masonry in 1995.

In 1968, Carl married Wanda Ranf in Billings, Montana. After a brief time in Hawai'i, they settled in the Gallatin Valley in 1972. That same year, they adopted his sister Leila’s three children—Joseph, Gregory, and Christina—following her and her husband’s passing. In 1975, the family moved into a brick ranch house in Gallatin Gateway that Carl helped build. Two more sons, Jeffery and Dustin, later joined the family. Carl and Wanda divorced in 1991.

For the next 25 years, Carl lived on a ranch, applying the practical skills gained from his farming upbringing and lifelong work with his hands. Known for his ability to fix or repurpose nearly anything, he maintained large vegetable gardens and knew every patch of wild asparagus from Bozeman to Minot. He generously shared his knowledge and assistance with others. After retirement, he served as Facilities Manager at Eagle Mount, where his commitment to the organization, the horses, and the children left a lasting impact. In his later years, he revitalized the gardens at the Cancer Support Community Montana, earning the title of Lead Volunteer Gardener.

Carl enjoyed visiting the Bozeman and Belgrade Senior Centers and gathering at Stacey's, where he shared stories and local news. He loved two-stepping to country western music, riding horses, feeding birds, and spending time in wide-open spaces. He showed his affection through thoughtful gifts, especially his prized pickled asparagus and banana bread.

He is survived by his sisters Idell, Ellen, and Jeanie; his children Joseph, Gregory, Christina, Jeffery, and Dustin; his grandchildren Leila, Haley, Emma, Joshua, Jeffery Jr., and Clay; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Carl will be deeply missed by all who knew him.