Kal, a loving husband, father, and the best Papa, left this earth March 25, 2023, peacefully in his sleep at Copper Ridge Health and Rehab in Butte, MT.
Kelvin (Kal) Saul was born on July 8th, 1943, to Elvin and Cleora (Linderman) Saul in Sutherland Nebraska. He was the youngest son of Elvin and Cleora’s four children. They spent his younger years in and around Billings Montana. He graduated Red Lodge high school in 1961, where he was in jazz band, pep band and played sports. Kal enlisted with the United States Navy in 1962, he served 4 years and was honorably discharged in 1966. Kal spent his next few years living life on the rodeo circuit, playing music, bartending, and ranching. While tending bar in West Yellowstone he met his then soon to be wife, Cindy at the Stagecoach where they both worked. Kal and Cindy married October 28th, 1972, in a ceremony shared with family and friends. They spent the next several years “ranchin” between Montana, Wyoming and Nebraska and growing their family. In 1989 they settled in West Yellowstone where they raised their 7 children and made a happy home. Their door was always open, the food was warm, the drinks were cold, and the company was good (maybe a little loud).
Kal was often found at the Totem, where if he wasn’t slinging drinks, he always had a story or a joke ready for you. Besides his wife and kids, one of Kal’s greatest passions was playing music. He enjoyed playing with his older brother Jay and many great friends through the years. Kal worked at the Totem until retirement, trading in his bartending hat for his Papa Cowboy hat. In addition to spending his time with his grandchildren, Kal could be found helping at the local rodeo, reliving his cowboy days, mentoring young riders and pulling gates. Kal and Cindy stayed in West Yellowstone until January 2017. After losing their house to a fire they moved to Billings where they were closer to doctors and enjoyed the milder winters. Even though their address had changed, Kal and Cindy’s door remained open for friends, family, and a good time.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Cindy (Hermanson) Saul; his children, Tana (Shawn) Willems, Dawn Saul, Amanda (Adam) Lofink, Kristy Saul, Wesley Saul, Casey Saul, Justin (Amy) Saul; his brother, Jay and his wife Cheryl Saul. All of his beloved grandchildren, Alayna (Hasan), Nathan, Cambree, Colter, Noah, Mikaela, Ellie, Everly, Aly, Charley, Kallynn and Maverick; many sister and brother in laws, and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elvin and Cleora Saul; his brother Victor; and his sister, Nelda.
Details for a Celebration of Life are still to be determined.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Kal.
Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Kal and his family.
B JoAnne Hultz says
Cal was such a Jewel in West Yellowstone for so many years…gental and kind. I miss him & Cindy and will always remember their friendship.
Tim Janecek says
Thoughts and prayers to the family. Kal will be missed by all.
Sunny Jaye says
Arms around the whole family for your loss. Kal was a great person.
Jon Devon says
Always had a great time at rodeos working with Cal. There was never a dull moment between life stories or jokes. Rest in peace my friend.
Sylvia Besel says
I graduated from high school with Kelvin and enjoyed sharing our growing up years. He always said I was the one who taught him to dance…and he was a darn good dancer!
Pat Skauge says
Kelvin and I were running mates all through high school! We went hunting together, enjoying the out of doors! We got into trouble together! (nuff said). Seeing Kelvin at the class of ’61 reunions was a blessing, especially our 60th Red Lodge High School reunion! That short time was special and Kelvin will be remembered fondly. Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate!!
Buddy Rae says
Buddy Rae in remembering Kelvin.
Kelvin and I were not only classmates, but also considered him a good friend. Our families were often together and we enjoyed many wonderful times. Kelvin was always a free spirit and willing to help at all times. He will be greatly missed.
My condolences to his family and surly want them to know he was special.