Salute to a Great Scouter!
Jack Hihnala passed away earlier this month, at age 77. He was a lifelong Scouter who began Scouting in Butte as a boy in grade school and continued active involvement until his death. He attended Butte High School, Montana Tech, and received a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Montana.
He and his wife Beverly were married for 48 years. He had a distinguished military career of 32 years, first enlisting in the Army, stationed in Germany, then serving in Special Forces as a Green Beret, with many challenging assignments,
He attended Butte High School, Montana Tech, and received a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Montana. He and his wife Beverly were married for 48 years. He had a distinguished military career of 32 years, first enlisting in the Army, stationed in Germany, then serving in Special Forces as a Green Beret, with many challenging assignments,
He had a distinguished military career of 32 years, first enlisting in the Army, stationed in Germany, then serving in Special Forces as a Green Beret, with many challenging assignments, and later as Comptroller for the Montana National Guard.
Jack’s Scouting career spanned over six decades, where he was active at the unit, district and council level. He served in many Scouting leadership roles and completed numerous Scouting training courses.
He led the council’s Report to the Governor (now Report to the State) for about 20 years.
Jack loved to teach and train, and he served on the staff of countless training courses for both youth and adults. He was especially active in the Commissioner Corps and taught often at the College of Commissioner Science, including doctorate level courses.
He served as Unit Commissioner for Troop 214 in Helena, Prickly Pear District. He earned many Scouting awards, including the Silver Beaver and Bronze Bear.
I will remember Jack for his sharp mind, definite opinions, and rye sense of humor. He was always fun to be around. He will be missed by many.
Let us salute Jack Hihnala – a great Scouter, for a lifetime of service to God, country and the youth of Montana!
Yours in Scouting,
Gordon Rubard
Scout Executive/CEO
