Porter Krone

Porter Ray Krone Jr.

Ray was born to Porter and Florence Krone on June 4th, 1924, joining four older sisters. His early years were divided between school in California and summers on The Big Horn, learning lessons that were to serve him well throughout his life. He returned full time to Montana where he graduated from Hardin High School. He went on to play basketball with the U of M Grizzlies until his father called him back to the ranch. He was always proud to have played on that level, and carried with him a lifelong love of the game.

On Jan 11 1946 Ray married Ruth McMorris, and thus began the love story that was to last another 71 years. They moved to Augusta and settled in to run this end of Soap Creek Cattle Company. He became well known and respected for producing prime, grass fat, 2 to 3 year old steers; and for the cattle drives by which over 1000 head were moved to the Augusta Stock Yard and loaded onto train cars destined for delivery to the buyer. He loved those years and was thankful he was a part of such times before they faded to become a part of history.

Before he knew it, he had spent a lifetime in the saddle, slowly and reluctantly he turned the reins over to his sons.

This man was a Mason, a Shriner, a member of the Republican National Committee, a Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Famer, the subject of stories in books and magazines, a dang good calf roper, a husband, dad, grandpa, and a friend to many. He would tell anyone who would listen that he was lucky enough to ride with some of the best cowboys to ever saddle up.

Ray is survived by his wife Ruth, son Lance (Lennie) Krone, daughter Valerie (David) Isakson, 10 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren. His eldest son Larry preceded him in death.

On January 29th, Ray caught a solid mount and quietly rode away in search of camp. We hope he threw his bedroll in a tent that doesn't leak, and ambled to the cook shack to join all those he's been missing. They'll talk of good hands they knew, fat cattle, and how it was done in the good old days. Don't worry Grandpa Ray, the cattle are content and we'll turn out the rest of your horses. They'll have green grass and good water. Rest easy, all is well. You are home.

No service will be held at Ray's request. The family suggests that any donations in his name go to the Augusta Volunteer Fire Department or Ambulance

Condolences may be left on line at www.gorderjensenfuneralhome.com