On September 21st, 2016, Jim, "Nate" Aylward, a loving brother, uncle, cousin and friend to all, left us unexpectedly and with great sadness. Nate was born to Leo and Beverly Aylward in Butte on October 1, 1954. Being blessed with four sisters, Nate learned at an early age to roll with the punches. He is survived by his sisters and their families; Sheila (Mick) Dennehy of Butte, Patty (Russ) Dunn of Colstrip, Carol (Joe) Roeber of Bullhead City, AZ, Linda (Bill) Morrish of Townsend, a special friend Jerie Pesanti and so many friends….if you were Nate's friend he made sure you knew it!
Nate loved helping people which was one of the reasons he was so successful co-owning Butte Oxygen. His customers always looked forward to him stopping and going the extra mile to help each one of them with whatever task they had for him.
Nate was lucky enough to live many days as some would say, "like it was his last day". He was always front and center at any occasion and brought laughter and a true sense of kindness wherever he went. Nate was one of a kind, a true Butte Original. He had a huge heart and true character. Being 100% Butte, Nate was never one to miss a festival or outing around town. Always looking dapper, you could find him among the crowds until the last story was told.
Being quite proud of Butte athletes, most weekends you could find Nate out supporting the local teams. Although he attended Montana State University as an undergraduate student he was a strong Griz fan.
May the long time sun shine upon you. All love surround you. And the pure light within you guide your way on. Until we meet again, Natebo we will miss you.
Relatives and friends may call after 10:00Am Friday September 30th at the Immaculate Conception Church for visitations. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00AM.
Memorial donations may be made to the Spirit of the Columbia Gardens Carousel, www.buttecarousel.com or by mail to PO Box 782, Butte, MT 59703.