Virgil ‘Sarge’ Sargent passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 2nd, 2022. Sarge resided in Butte, Montana, but was born in Hubbard, Oregon on October 4th, 1943. He was born to Guy Sargent and Bertha Zimmerman. He was one of eight siblings.
Sarge grew up on a ranch in Hubbard, Oregon, and had an interest in automobiles and classic car restoration. In his younger years, he enjoyed motor cross and riding horses. After relocating to Montana, his passion for automotive work continued. He owned his own repair shop and was a mechanic for about 30 years. Sarge and his wife, Laura Ann Sargent, married in July of 1991. Alongside his wife, he also bred and sold Quarter horses. His sons were always eager to help on their ranch and made many fond memories doing so.
After an accident, Sarge changed career paths and became the long-time and proud owner of Broadway Antiques, which was operated in Butte, Montana. He had a passion for and a great knowledge of antiques, and was the city’s go-to for antique inquiries. He made many friends and had great, long-term connections with antique dealers and customers across the state. He owned and operated the antique store for 20 years. After health-related issues arose, Sarge decided to close the store and spend more time with family and friends.
Sarge is preceded in death by parents Guy Sargent and Bertha Zimmerman; siblings Ron Sargent, Marla Monet, Johnny Milner, and Ron Sargent; and close friends Kirby Axtel and Kahl Gubler.
Sarge is survived by wife Laura Ann Sargent; daughters Trisha and Toni; sons Matthew, Samuel, and Levi Sargent; siblings Myron and Paul Sargent, Julie Callis, Sandy Bernhardt, Fran Albers and Sue Duffy; grandchildren Aaron, Kirby, Amalia, Mattea, Leon, and Maverick Sargent and Alivia Moore; sisters-in-law Diana Schramm and Bobbi Lemler; brothers-in-law LeRoy Schramm and Mike Lemler; daughters-in-law Katie Sargent and Andrea Moore; and close friends Tim Noland, Dan and Sally Hollis.
Please join us to lay Sarge to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery, 4700 Harrison Ave., Butte, Montana at 11 o’clock on Monday, April 11th, 2022. A reception will follow at Metals Sports Bar and Grill, 8 W. Park St., Butte, MT. Sarge is being buried with father-in-law Francis Ike Lemler.
We express our gratitude to Highlands Hospice and Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services.
Upon request of the family, gifts and donations can be made and addressed to Highlands Hospice.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Sarge and his family.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of Sarge.
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
11:00 a.m.
Monday April 11, 2022
Holy Cross Cemetery
4700 Harrison Ave.
Butte, MT 59701
Reception
Following Graveside Service
Monday April 11, 2022
Metals Bar and Grill
8 W. Park St.
Butte, MT 59701
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Mark Sargent says
I’ll miss you uncle. Never did get that chance to go fishing. Maybe someday we just might still..
Susan Duffy says
I will miss not talking with you. Even though we didn’t grow up together, you will always be my big brother. I have such great & happy memories of visiting you & your family in Montana years ago. You welcomed us & made our visit very special. May you rest in peace, big brother.
Love, your little sister, Sue
Jeff Miller says
Laura, so sorry to hear of Sarge’s passing. He was a heck of a nice guy and I enjoyed visiting with him. Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Kathy Johnson says
Laura and family, I’m so sorry for your loss. Sarge was an awesome man. Praying for all of you.🙏❤️
Myron Sargent says
Laura and family, we wish we could be there with you. We shared some pictures of Vigil’s toys from younger years and a letter he wrote to his Mom when she was visiting her sister in Pennsylvania in 1952. We thought you would get a kick out of it. He was about 8 1/2 years old at the time. We enjoyed our time with all of you when we came to Montana visit. I will miss my brother.
April Axtell says
My thoughts go out to Laura and family!! So many memories growing up with the family and he will be greatly missed. He is finally at rest with my grandpa Kirby and his friend Kahl!! Prayers for the family for peace.
Jeff Francis says
Enjoyed knowing Sarge and enjoyed my dealings with him. A character to say the least that livened up Broadway Street. Rest In Peace Sarge and my best to Laura and his family.
Jamie Radoman DeBates says
Laura,
Holding you close in my thoughts and prayers. I’m so sorry to just be seeing this.
Jennifer Smith Mitchell says
I always enjoyed visiting Sarge at the Antique store. He had great stories and was a sweet guy. My thoughts and prayers to Laura and family.
Anonymous says
Sorry for your loss sarge was a great guy keep you in are hearts and prayers
Joseph Mogus says
Sorry for your loss sarge was a great guy liked working for him he will be missed