Vic Felde was, in a word, beloved. His daughter Tawnee warmly recalls his widespread admiration, saying, “He was loved by so many, and I don’t think he ever fully realized the depth of it.”
A Vietnam War veteran, Vic served courageously as a medic, providing critical care under harrowing conditions. His life post-service was equally diverse; he worked variously as a prison guard, a waiter, and later, as the beloved owner of a local bar.
His hobbies were as varied as his career path, spanning from crossword puzzles and coin collecting to savoring gourmet food, playing golf, bowling, and reading. His love for football remained a constant, with many weekends spent cheering on his favorite team, the Bears. Yet, amidst his many pursuits, Vic's unwavering devotion to his children shone brightest. Never once did he miss their school functions, especially their sporting events.
Tawnee often marveled at her father’s intelligence and breadth of knowledge. “He just knew so much about everything. It was incredible how he could pull facts and wisdom out of nowhere, without ever needing to look things up. He was our encyclopedia,” she remembers fondly.
More than his knowledge, Vic will be remembered for his vibrant personality—his big smile, infectious laugh, and the warm sense of humor that drew people to him. He taught his children the value of honesty and kindness, and showered them with affection, giving them humorous nicknames and supporting them through life’s challenges. When his grandchildren faced the possibility of entering foster care, Vic did not hesitate to become their foster parent, ensuring they remained within the family and provided a stable, loving environment.
Vic passed away in 2022 at the age of 74 due to heart failure. In the wake of this immense loss, his family found solace in fulfilling his longstanding wish to be a donor—a decision he had made known years earlier. “He was adamant about donation, convinced of its goodness since I was little,” Tawnee explains. “When the time came to make the decision, there was no hesitation. We knew it was exactly what he would have wanted.”
Vic’s compassionate spirit and generosity found a profound expression in his final act of donating tissue and corneas, bringing vision and healing to others even after his departure. His legacy was honored in a touching ceremony at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Billings, MT. Tawnee, driving 200 miles to attend, felt a deep sense of pride and gratitude. “It’s about continuing his legacy of kindness,” she reflected. “Helping others was something he always believed in. It’s comforting to know that his spirit lives on, aiding those in need.”
Vic Felde's story is a poignant reminder of the enduring impact one individual can have, not just in the lives they touch directly, but also through the selfless act of donation. His legacy continues to inspire and resonate, echoing his belief in the power of generosity.
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