Daniel "Dan" Scholler

On July 31, 2026, Daniel "Dan" Scholler, 83, of Ennis, Montana, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by the love of his family. Fittingly, he departed on his wedding anniversary, making it a beautiful day for his heavenly reunion with his beloved wife, Sandy. Dan was a devoted brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend whose kindness, humor, and love for family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Dan was born on July 8, 1943, in International Falls, Minnesota, the third child of Otto and Ethel Scholler. In 1957, his family moved to Saco, Montana, and later relocated to Garrison in 1960.

In 1965, Dan met Sandra Lee Waugh in Deer Lodge, Montana. After a whirlwind courtship, the two were married on July 31, 1965, just six months after meeting. Together they built a loving family and welcomed six children: Margaret, Elizabeth, Danielle, Jennifer, Ethel, and Wardie. Later in life, following the heartbreaking loss of their daughter Ethel, Dan and Sandy lovingly adopted and raised their granddaughter, Kimberly.

Dan and Sandy made their home in the Butte and Anaconda communities, where they raised their family and built a life together. Their marriage lasted 43 years, until Sandy's passing in 2009. Throughout his life, Dan worked hard to provide for his family, earning a living in the sawmills and mines of southwest Montana. He also worked as a dairy farmer on a local ranch. Following Sandy's passing, Dan moved to Ennis in 2012, where he quickly became a familiar face and a beloved local legend.

One of Dan's greatest passions was bowling. A lifelong bowler, he traveled throughout Montana competing in leagues and earning numerous awards, including recognition for high-scoring and perfect games. He also enjoyed simple pleasures, especially climbing into his truck and going for a drive. After settling in Ennis, another favorite pastime became visiting Willie's Distillery, where he enjoyed sharing a drink, swapping stories, and spending time with the many friends he affectionately called his sweethearts, especially his favorite girl, Audrey.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Ethel Scholler; his sister, Jane; his brothers, Marty and Leo; his beloved wife, Sandy; his daughters, Elizabeth and Ethel; and his sister-in-law, Leslie.

He is survived by his brothers, Marshall Scholler of Anaconda and Axel Scholler of Butte along with his sisters-in-law, Karen of Anaconda, Rosie of Butte, and Shelley of Anaconda; and by his children and their families:

• Margaret and Vernon Vogel of Wyoming, and their sons, Jeff and Tanner.

• Danielle and Derek Rudzinski of Ennis, and children, JD, Shayla, Maverek, Tori, and DJ.

• Jennifer of Ennis, and her daughters, Deanna and Julianna.

• Wardie and Tina Scholler of Butte, and their daughter, Riley.

Dan was also blessed with many great-grandchildren: Jadenlyn, Logan, Wyatt, Kaelyn, Braxton, Audriana, Willow, Wyley, Jaxton, Aislinn, Oddessa, Paislee, Wren, Troy, Donelo, Jenna, Sandralee, Janessa, and one great-grandchild on the way.

A family-oriented man who valued lasting relationships, Dan leaves behind a legacy built on love, loyalty, and connection. He is also survived by his close niece, Jolene Heaney of Butte, and her daughters, Tristina, Tanisha, Miranda, Mataya, and Janaya, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dan's granddaughter-in-law, Dana, for the compassionate care she provided during his final days. Special thanks also to John and Laura, whose unwavering support and willingness to help brought comfort to both Dan and his family. The family is grateful to Brittany for preparing Dan's final announcement and memorial videography; to Jolene for her love and presence during Dan's final moments and for assisting with his obituary; and to the Assembly of God Church in Ennis for hosting the services and luncheon. Thank you to Pastor Greg for officiating the funeral service.

Funeral Services

Assembly of God Church, Ennis, Montana

Viewing
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Funeral Service
Wednesday, August 5, 2026
10:30 a.m.
A light luncheon will follow at the church.

A procession will then travel to Mount Moriah Cemetery in Butte, where a brief graveside service will be held at approximately 2:30pm. Family and friends are invited to gather afterward for a potluck picnic at a local Butte park to be announced at the graveside service.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be left with Pastor Greg at the Ennis Assembly of God Church and will go toward Dan's final expenses.