Dennis George Fishbaugher passed away peacefully at his home, on Friday, September 5, 2025.
Denny was born in Preston, Minn., on January 19, 1946, to Bill and Marian (Reinsvold) Fishbaugher. He graduated from Harmony High School in Harmony, Minn., in 1964. He worked for his dad and at a very young age bought his own farm. Later, he decided to follow his dream and move to Montana, where he purchased the OX Yoke Dude Ranch from the Murphy family. He also worked for Xanterra in Yellowstone Park where he drove the tour bus, the snowcoach, and worked with the Bull Crew. Due to his parents’ health, he returned to La Crosse, Wis., and hauled hot asphalt for Mathy Construction. He was also a guide for big game hunters, with his most memorable time helping Ron Dube.
In 2014, he met Kay Bergsing – love and adventure found them. A favorite memory for the two of them was riding 47 miles on mules to the Two Ocean Pass. Kay’s son Curt said mom never rode a horse, shot a gun, or drank a beer until she met Denny.
Denny and Kay wintered in Yuma, Ariz., and enjoyed riding ATVs and socializing with good friends.
Denny’s retirement included working at Wilcoxson’s Ice Cream, the Park County Fair Grounds, and mowing lawns for Gary Doornek. In 2024, he purchased Artistic Lawn Care, where he worked until his last days with his mowing partner and special friend, Scott Kautzman.
Denny enjoyed spending time and making memories with his family and also with his “inherited” family, “The Bergsing Bunch.” Denny had jokingly stated, “I have never had any kids of my own, but I sure inherited a hell of a mess.”
He is survived by his loving and fun partner, Kay Bergsing (who he referred to as Hitler), his siblings Lori Moore (Bob), Kathy Broadwater, Neil Fishbaugher (Mary), Renee Hegg (Curt), many nieces and nephews; and of course the Bergsing Kids, Kim Curtis (Wayne), Curt Bergsing, Darren Bergsing (Heather) and Kelly Bergsing (Desiree); and all of the grandkids.
Denny was predeceased by his parents Bill and Marian Fishbaugher, brother-in-law Dan Broadwater, stepson Jory Bergsing and grandson Dustin Bergsing.
Denny will be remembered by his generosity, kindness, and knack of attracting new friends and greeted everyone with a big smile and a hug.
Memorials may go to Livingston HealthCare Hospice, 320 Alpenglow Lane, Livingston, MT 59047.
Come join us for Denny’s Celebration of Life (the Last Big Party Denny helped plan) on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 3 p.m. at the American Legion 112 N. B St, Livingston, MT.
Ed Peterson says
Denny was my guide for elk when he worked with Ron Dube, in 02. He helped me kill a monster 6×6 bull on the edge of Yellowstone, in the Thoroufare wilderness. We rode in 25 miles in with 35 pack animals…….as he was hurrying to field dress my bull,, because of an impending snowstorm, he severely and deeply cut his left forearm……..I was able to get him on his horse for a long ride back to camp, where luckily there was an M.D. hunter who was able to suture up the wound. I always kidded him about the ceremony where he became blood brothers with my elk!!!!!!! He visited me in Missouri in 07, and was able to see my (our) elk on my fireplace……….i value his friendship, and the great memories on the Thoroufare…….he was a wonderful soul, and a truly GREAT MAN. I JUST LEARNED OF HIS PASSING AFTER CHRISTMAS 25………..
Kay and family, GOD bless and keep you all……..we have all been blessed by knowing him.. HE WAS ONE OF A KIND.
Nancy Carolan says
Dennis and myself Nancy Erickson were the only two in the Marks country school until we went to 7th grade in Harmony High School.