Darren Cline

James Darren Cline was born December 11, 1967 in East Liverpool, OH and passed away suddenly August 4, 2024 in Bozeman, MT. As a young boy he moved with his mother Mary and brother Shawn moved to the Gallatin Gateway and Four Corners area. He spent countless days in the mountains with his Stepfather Art "Butch" Cline and Uncle Paul. Darren found his adventures and solace "on the hill" with his close friends and hunting buddies, those deep friendships built then carried through until his very last day.

Darren & Roxanne (Kallem) were married in 1992 and had two children, Zachary Ray Cline and Makayla Rae Cline (Ashley). They moved to Willow Creek and soon after Darren joined the Willow Creek Fire Department. Later they divorced and Darren found his lifelong partner, Rhonda Buckallew. They created a happy, creative, and welcoming home on the ranch together in Milligan Canyon. The ranch became a gathering spot for all friends and family with something new hatching and being born, projects going on, guns to sight in, dogs afoot and gatherings. Darren's best buddy and grandson, Hudson Ray, was born in August of 2020 and soon became his constant companion, ranch-hand in training and little mimic.

Darren served 20 years on the Willow Creek Fire Department and together, Darren and Rhonda responded to hundreds of emergency calls, usually responding in Darrens favorite ole reliable "Brush 41".

Darren had a special way with nature, children, and critters. Many a little-one and stray found their way in to his heart, including Madison Niles-Chater and Austin and Hank Nichols. His many "sisters", nieces and nephew, cousins, "The Ohio boys", hunting companions, First Responder Family and so many more will forever have benefitted from his love, loyalty and friendship. Darren was a man of the mountains who lead his life at his own speed, with his own terms and his own rhythm. His chuckle, wisdom and love will forever be missed.

A Celebration of Darren's life will be held On September 14th at The Willow Creek Fire Hall. More details to follow.

In Lieu of flowers you can make donations to the Willow Creek Fire Department.