Gordon Giulio (Dad, Gramps, Great Papa) passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by our family on Aug. 29, 2024.
Dad was born in Los Angeles, Calif., in 1937, not because our parents lived there, but because of his mother’s age and advances in medical care. Those who knew him knew he didn’t care for big city life, so in true Gordon fashion, even as an infant, Dad and our grandparents quickly got out of Dodge and back to where they were most comfortable: Montana. He grew up in Comet and, once he and Mom got married, raised five kids in High Ore. His wish was to remain at home, which he did until his passing.
Dad was preceded in death by his parents, John Sr. and Jennie Giulio; his siblings Jeanette Harold, Betty Ann, and John Jr.; and his loving wife of 56 years, Mary. He is survived by his children Rusty (Val) and Bruce (Lisa) of Boulder, Steve (Tina) of Helena, Sherri, who lives in the United Kingdom, and Jennie (Brian) of Jefferson City; and a garbage truck full of grandchildren (20) and great grandchildren (33), as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Dad served his country in the United States Army from 1959 to 1961 at Fort Sheridan, Ill. Upon leaving the military, he worked for a short period in the U.S. Forest Service. He built Giulio Disposal from the ground up, starting in 1961, before turning over the operations in 2019. He also worked for the Montana Highway Department from 1964 until his retirement in 1993, and it’s been said he was one of the best blade operators in the state of Montana. Serving others was part of Dad’s DNA. Not only was he a member of the Jaycees, but the Jefferson High School Booster Club, too.
Dad will be remembered for his love of family and friends, his indomitable spirit, and his s*** eating grin. He enjoyed heading into Boulder every now and again to make a quick stop at the Windsor for a shot and a beer. His calm, quiet demeanor was a breath of fresh air in an often loud, crazy home. He would watch and listen silently as our Italian temperaments were on full display, engaging when required to teach us valuable life lessons. He had an unmatched work ethic and taught us five kids the same.
Dad, Gramps, Great Papa… you will be missed, but never forgotten. In the words of Vince Gill: “Go rest high on that mountain/Son, your work here on earth is done/ Go to heaven a shoutin/ Love for the Father and the Son.” It’s your time, Dad. Go rest high on that mountain, for your work here on earth is done!
A viewing will take place in Boulder at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds White Barn at 1 p.m. on Sept. 6. The funeral service will take place in the barn immediately after the viewing, at 2 p.m, followed by a reception.
