In Loving Memory of William McBride Converse
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved father/grandfather, William McBride Converse, who left us peacefully on December 28, 2024, at the age of 82. He was a cherished father, grandfather, and steadfast firefighter, whose legacy of strength, generosity, and wisdom will remain in our hearts forever.
Born on July 19, 1942, in Anaconda, Montana, William was the son of Mary McBride and Donald J. Converse. He married Charlotte Smollack, May 20th, 1967 at St. Peter’s Cathedral. He spent his life dedicated to his family and community. William was known for his wit and humor among friends, his pride and joy for his five grandchildren, and his unwavering devotion to his late wife, Charlotte.
William served his community as a sergeant in the Montana National Guard, a repairman on the Butte Anaconda Pacific Railroad, a Smelterman, and was on various boards for the Anaconda Deer Lodge County. William was a proud Anaconda Firefighter (1972 – 1996) and Anaconda Fire Chief (1996 – 2005). A day never went by when he did not honor the job he so proudly served for thirty two years. He would often say when speaking about his time in the Department that he missed it every day. He beamed with pride when he saw his youngest grandson, Alec, join the very same service this past year as an Anaconda Firefighter-Paramedic.
William went by many names, but his favorite by far was the one his dear grandchildren called him: Poppey. As Poppey, he devoted himself to his family. William spent summers camping with his five grandchildren at the Bighole Sportsman’s Campground, where he taught them fly fishing and wood carving, shared stories, and beat them at games of cribbage.
He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Michelle and Kevin Buffington, and their five children: Jacob, Alec (his wife, Elana Ostler), Amelia, Madison (her husband, Joseph Pearson), and Abigail. He is also survived by his sister Mary Pat, and numerous nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Donald; his brother James; and his beloved wife, Charlotte. He leaves behind a legacy of joy, love, and cherished memories.
A memorial service to celebrate William’s life will be held on January 3, 2025, at Mount Olivet Cemetery at 11am. A reception will follow at Thompson’s Bar. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the All Clear Foundation in his name.
An Irish prayer says, “All is well; nothing is hurt, and nothing is lost. One brief moment, and it shall be as it was before. How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again.”
Rest soundly, Poppey, until we meet again.
Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services is privileged to care for William and his family.
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