Eli Brotz Talovich Jr.

Eli Brotz Talovich Jr., age 85, was a loving, hardworking, stubborn, and determined man whose life was devoted to his family, his work, his community, and the outdoors. He was a man who believed in working hard, taking care of what was entrusted to him, and making the most of whatever life put in front of him.

Eli was born to Eli "Smoky" Talovich Sr. and Martha "Matsa" Talovich. He grew up alongside his brother, Larry "Laz" Talovich, and his sister, Mary Talovich Hamilton.

From an early age, Eli learned the value of hard work. One of his first jobs was working in the two bars his family owned in Meeteetse, Wyo. He would clean the brass spittoons and collect the money people threw into them as his pay. It was an early lesson in earning his way and would become one of many examples of the hardworking and resourceful man he would grow to be.

When Eli was young, he dreamed of serving in the Army as a paratrooper. Life, however, took him in a different direction. His family chose him to be the one who would stay home and care for the family farm, and Eli accepted that responsibility. He devoted himself to his family, the land, and the work that needed to be done.

Eli made the most of every season. During the winter months and into early spring, he worked construction and in the oil fields. When spring arrived, he returned home to farm, work the fields, and tend to his livestock. He raised both sheep and cattle and took great pride in caring for the farm.

One of Eli's first demanding jobs was working as a high-scale climber in Wind River Canyon. Suspended high above the highway, he used explosives to blast away and remove large rocks from the canyon walls, preventing them from falling onto the road below. The dangerous work required strength, skill, and courage-qualities that defined Eli throughout his life.

Eli also worked on the construction of Anchor Dam for much of the project. Over the years, he worked on many great and unique projects throughout the hometown area. He was never afraid of hard work and was always willing to take on a difficult job.

Eli was an avid and highly skilled heavy equipment operator. He had a natural ability to operate just about any piece of equipment he climbed into. He was especially skilled on a bulldozer, building locations throughout the oil fields. He could dig ditches with a backhoe, operate many different types of heavy equipment, and handle the wide variety of farming machinery needed to work the family farm. Whether he was operating a bulldozer, backhoe, or farm machinery, Eli knew his equipment and knew how to get the job done.

His dedication to his community extended beyond his own farm. Eli served for many years on the County Weed and Pest Board, giving his time, knowledge, and experience to help protect the land and agricultural community around him.

Eli was also an avid hunter and fisherman, with a deep love of the outdoors. In his younger years, he especially enjoyed elk hunting by horseback, spending time in the mountains and country he loved.

After retiring, fishing became one of his greatest pleasures. He spent much of his free time fishing the lakes and reservoirs throughout the surrounding area. Some years, his love of fishing even took him to Alaska, where he enjoyed fishing for halibut, something he loved very much. He could often be found with a fishing rod in his hand, enjoying the peace and beauty of the outdoors.

Eli was a loving husband and father and was married to his beloved wife, Claudia Jane Talovich, for 61 years. Together, they built a life centered around family, hard work, the farm, and the many things they enjoyed together.

Eli was also a loving grandfather to his grandson, Donald Jay Talovich. Whenever Donald came to visit in Thermopolis, Eli would take him fishing as much as possible. Sharing his love of fishing with his grandson gave them special time together and created memories that Eli treasured.

One of the things his family will remember most about Eli was a simple saying he carried with him throughout his life: "May God be with us," always spoken in the traditional Yugoslavian language. He would say it whenever one of his loved ones was traveling. It was his way of wishing them safety and letting them know they were in his thoughts.

Those simple words carried the love, concern, and watchfulness of a husband, father, and grandfather. For his family, hearing those words from Eli will always be a cherished memory of him-a few simple words that said so much about how deeply he cared.

Eli is survived by his wife, Claudia Jane Talovich; children, Eli Talovich III and Debra Lynn (Talovich) Underhill; and sister, Mary Talovich Hamilton.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Larry "Laz" Talovich; and grandson, Donald Jay Talovich, whom he loved dearly.

Eli will be remembered as a hardworking man who was loving, stubborn, determined, and proud of the life he built. He gave his time and talents to his family, his farm, his community, and the many people and projects that crossed his path. He knew how to work hard, operate a piece of equipment, tend his livestock, work the land, hunt the mountains, and enjoy a quiet day of fishing.

Most of all, Eli will be remembered for the life he lived and the people he loved. His hard work, stories, memories, and the mark he left on the people and places around him will remain with his family and those who knew him.

At the request of Eli and his family, no formal services will be held. Eli passed away in Billings, Mont., where he was cremated. His son, Eli Talovich III, brought him home.

At a later time and date, Eli's ashes will be spread at various locations that were especially dear to him. These places will provide a lasting connection to the land, the outdoors, and the many special places that brought Eli happiness throughout his life.

And whenever someone in his family sets out on a journey, they will remember his familiar words:

"May God be with us."