John Tutsch

On Friday, November 11, 2022, John “Big Dad” Tutsch,62, passed peacefully at home in Alder, Montana. As the dutiful provider that he was, his wishes to be surrounded by his children and grandchildren were honored.

Big Dad was born in Anaconda, Montana and spent much of his early years in Dillon. Those who knew him, know he played just as hard as he worked. He showed his interest in business when he opened “R Place,” a movie store that was right above the still-standing, Sump Bar, in Sheridan.

John first became a father at 20 years old when his namesake, Johnny was born. His big heart lent refuge to many wandering kids, as such he earned the name and title, Big Dad. When his daughter, Aspen, was born in 1999, he loved and led her with pride. He cherished his time with all of his kids.

Big Dad raised his kids to have a deep love for the outdoors, starting with teaching his son to fish in California, they spent 4 years in Nevada. Once back in Sheridan, he took to working construction with JDL and eventually owned Maddison Meats, famous for his jerky and sausage. He went on to provide other businesses with his butcher skills throughout the rest of his life.

Most of us can picture Big Dad in his Green Bay Packers baseball hat and sleeveless shirt, his classic mustache always making him recognizable in HIS chair at Chicks or Melrose bar.

The witty sense of humor and deep belly laugh that were classically “him” will echo through our memories of the times we got to share.

His carefree nature showed in one of his many catchphrases, “What are they gonna do, make me ugly?” “Girls give me warts,” and “I’ll shoot ya in the leg.”

He never missed an opportunity to take Charisse up into the hills in Big Red, just to make sure the reservoir didn’t dry up overnight.

Big Dad enjoyed busting snow drifts while “giving her the onion,” and in his opinion, the opening day of hunting season should forever be honored as a national holiday.

He is survived by his bride of 25 years, Charisse Tutsch; oldest son Johnny (Lauren) Tutsch; daughter Aspen (Mike) Clark; sons Lance (Phoebe) & Dustin Bock; grandkids Jaida & Ryder Tutsch, Wilder, Lilah & Lyla Bock; Connor & Kimber Clark; brothers Tom (Lynette) Currie & Mike Tutsch; nieces Wendy (Carlton) Bilingslea, Collette (Barry) Kothbauer, Loralie (Denton) Campbell and Michelle Currie.

Predeceased by parents Donna Gram and Earl Tutsch.

Loved by all, near and far. Rest in love Big Dad. We’ll miss you.

Please send condolences to PO Box 225, Alder, MT 59710.

Celebration of life at Chick’s December 3, 2pm.