Chuck Lanes, 81, had his heavenly adoption finalized on Monday, October 5, 2026, following a motorcycle accident. He has gone to his forever home with the Lord.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, pastor, and proud United States Navy veteran, Chuck leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, service, and cherished memories.
Chuck proudly served in the Navy from 1965 to 1971, attaining the rank of Interior Communications Electrician Second Class (IC2). A Vietnam War veteran, he completed two tours aboard Navy destroyers — aircraft carrier screening, coastal operations, and brown-water missions through Vietnam’s inland and coastal waterways. His service remained a lifelong source of pride, reflecting his commitment to duty, honor, and country.
As an ordained minister for 38 years, Chuck was a true “Fisher of Men” — welcoming people from every walk of life with an open heart, compassion, and spiritual guidance. He pastored Whitehall Assembly of God Church for 15 years, and his ministry reached far beyond the pulpit: he spearheaded the church’s construction from beginning to end, personally giving countless hours of labor and craftsmanship. That building stands today as a lasting testament to his faith, determination, and love for his community.
Beyond ministry, Chuck loved restoring classic cars, cheering on stock car races in Belgrade, Montana, and above all, riding motorcycles — serving as a chaplain on organized rides, where his faith and passion for the open road became one. He spent his final day doing what he loved most: riding in the freedom and peace of the open road.
Chuck is survived by his loving wife, Sandi Lanes; his children, Bill (Dina) Lanes, Holli (Jeremy) Bennett, and Justin Lanes; his grandchildren, Dawson (Braelin) Lanes, BreeAnne (Jesse) Lamb, Dallon and Brooklynn Lanes, Joshua (Kari) and Jacob (Micayla) Parrow, and Caleb, Christian, Collin, and Crystal Lanes; and his great-grandchildren, Ashlyn Schmidt, Daltyn Schmidt, Aniyah Parrow, Jaylee and Everly Lanes.
A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held Friday, October 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Whitehall Assembly of God Church, 6 1st Street East, Whitehall, Montana, with a luncheon immediately following. Family, friends, veterans, and fellow motorcycle riders are warmly welcome to join. A graveside service with military honors will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison, Montana.
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