Community Obituaries
Richard “Dick” Ellestad, 89, a longtime Lewistown resident, educator, coach, former mayor, and community member, passed away at his home on September 5th, 2026. Born in Watford City, North Dakota, Dick graduated from Williston High School and Minot State College before serving two years in the United States Army.
His career in education began with a year in Linton, North Dakota, where he met IleanSauter. Following their marriage, the couple lived for three years in Forsyth, Montana, before moving to Lewistown in the fall of 1966. For nearly six decades, Lewistown was home. Dick and Ilean raised their five children—Robert, Roy, Robin, Richard II, and Ronda—and built a deep, lasting footprint in the community.
Dick spent 23 years teaching at Fergus High School, where generations of local students and athletes also knew him simply as Coach Ellestad. Wrestling and football were central parts of his life, and he continued sharing stories from his coaching days long after leaving the field and gym. Later, he served four years as mayor of Lewistown, taking an active role in localleadership and community projects.
A man of deep faith, Dick was very active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,serving in the bishopric and various other callings. He was exceptionally close to his nine grandchildren, as well as his great-grandchildren. Beyond his professional and civic titles, Dick lived a life rich in connection and simple joys. He loved spending time with his family, coaching, fishing, hunting, watching football, and playing board or card games.
A naturalconversationalist who loved to tell stories, Dick firmly believed there were nostrangers—only friends he hadn't met yet. Those who knew him will also remember his humor, often turning everyday moments into a joke and gladly making himself the subject of it. A walk down Main Street easily took longer than expected because he would inevitably run intosomeone to talk to.
Dick and Ilean celebrated more than 60 years of marriage. He outlived all of his siblings,standing as the last surviving member of his generation of the Ellestad family.
Dick is survived by his wife, Ilean; their five children; along with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family. His influence remains alive in the people he taught andcoached, the community he served, the family he raised, and the countless stories that will continue to be told about him.
Funeral Services for Dick will be held Saturday, September 12th, 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Lewistown with viewing one hour prior at 10:00 a.m. Interment with military honors will be at Mountain View Cemetery in Columbus, Montana, Monday, September 14th, 10:00 a.m. Memorial donations in Dick’s honor can be made to any Veteran’s Organization of your choice.
Arrangements are under the care ofCreel Funeral Home. Dick’s family and friends can share memories and condolences at www.creelfuneralhome.com