Claude Melvin "Corky" Vail, age 83, passed away Wednesday, May 26, 2021, in Butte. Corky was born on April 19, 1938 in Lewistown, MT to Claude and Mary (Windsor) Vail. His parents moved the family to Butte when Corky was around 10 years old. He contracted rheumatic fever which resulted in heart valve damage as a child. The same infection claimed his sister Terry's life at the age of 14. He entered the US Navy at the age of 18 and after being discharged he returned to Butte. Corky worked as a cement finisher and was one of those who volunteered their time creating the concrete base for Our Lady of the Rockies to rest upon and gaze over our beautiful town of Butte and the Summit Valley. Throughout his career working with cement Corky would amaze many a younger man with his strength and ability to out—work them. Corky enjoyed sports, especially football. The New England Patriots were one of his favorite teams.  He also enjoyed old TV show westerns, especially "Gunsmoke." He loved to just go out with his truck into the mountains, fish and enjoy the beauty of Montana.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, LeoAnn Vail; sisters, Terry Vail and Mary (Vail) Chrismon; and brothers, Bert, Willy Rocky and Jimmy Vail. Corky is survived by his daughter, Brenda (Florian) Cortese; son, Claude Brooks Vail. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Corky's heart finally began to fail and he had a rough last year of life. He knew it was time.  He now is at peace and sure to be enjoying time with his beloved family whom he missed so terribly.

The family would especially like to thank Tim Hawe for his support, companionship and helping with the care of Corky. They would also like to give a special thanks to the Crest Nursing Home and Tracy Anzik for the great care they gave Corky in his last days.

Memorial Services will be conducted on June 18, 2021 at 2:00 PM in the Duggan Dolan Mortuary Chapel.  Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery.