Montgomery, Nick

Nick Montgomery, 66, died Monday, Nov. 22, 2010, at his home in Vinton, following a brief illness. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. today at Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church, Vinton, with Pastor Mark C. Urlaub officiating. Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. today at the church.

Nick proudly served his country in the United States Army for 35 years, retiring in September 2008. He was a helicopter and airplane pilot and aviation safety officer, flying 11 different types of aircraft. He traveled extensively while he was in the military, living in seven states, and he was also stationed in Bolivia and Germany. He served in Vietnam and the Gulf War. He received the Distinguished Graduate of Aviator Class, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, a Bronze Star and numerous Air medals. He was a member of the Flying Tigers, U.S. Helicopter Pilots Association and the Military Officers of America Association.

Nick was a member of Bethlehem evangelical Lutheran Church, Lions Club and the Country Club in Vinton. He volunteered at Vinton-Shellsburg schools. He enjoyed golfing, sailing, music, hunting and Green Bay Packers football.

Nick is survived by his wife of 43 years, Lynn of Vinton; one daughter, Jennifer (John) Engler of Garrison; one son, Jonathan Montgomery of Portland, Ore.; two grandchildren, Halie and John Frank Engler; one brother, Don (Kris) Montgomery of Escanaba, Mich.; and one sister, Karen (Pat) Perry of Reno, Nev.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial fund has been established.

Van Steenhuyse-Russell Funeral Home of Vinton is caring for Nick and his family.

Condolences may be left at