Joseph Leo Zahler

Joseph Leo Zahler, age 87, passed away peacefully at his home on March 9, 2026, at 2:13 p.m., surrounded by his loving wife and daughter.

Joe was born on August 1, 1938, in Cody, WY to Frank C. and Veronica I. (Lucara) Zahler. He grew up in both Great Falls and Lewistown. Joe graduated from St. Leo's High School before attending Carroll College. He later graduated from the University of Montana in 1960 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Radio and Television Broadcasting.

In 1961, Joe was drafted into the United States Army, where he served for two years and was awarded a medal for good conduct.

Joe dedicated his life to radio broadcasting, building a career that spanned more than 50 years. His passion for local media led him to found the local FM radio station, becoming a trusted and familiar voice in the community. Throughout his career he received numerous awards from the Associated Press and the Society of Professional Journalists in recognition of his excellence and integrity in journalism.

Joe met the love of his life, Clotilde, during a chance meeting in California. Just four months later, they were married in 1969 by a Justice of the Peace. Six months afterward, Joe drove to Ciudad Obregón where they were married again in a cathedral. Together they shared 57 loving years of marriage.

Beyond his work in broadcasting, Joe had many creative and personal interests. As a young man he enjoyed playing the piano and throughout his life he loved drawing and painting. He also enjoyed searching the hills of Montana for Yogo sapphires. Joe was instrumental in helping start and promote the original local Art Center, reflecting his belief in supporting creativity within the community.

Those who knew Joe will remember him as a friendly, compassionate, kind, and respectful man. Though he did not have many opportunities to travel, he especially loved visiting Mexico whenever he could.

Joe will be remembered for his integrity, honesty, dedication to his family, and lifelong commitment to local broadcasting. His voice, presence, and contributions left a lasting mark on both his profession and his community.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife, Clotilde Zahler of Lewistown; his children, Annette Zahler of Lewistown and Michael (Lori) Zahler of Bozeman, MT; and his cherished granddaughter, Elizabeth May Zahler; siblings, Francis Zahler and Joyce Streber both of Lewistown. His niece and nephew Kay (Jeremy) LaBarre of Conrad, MT and Neil (Rochelle) Streber of Lewistown, MT

Vigil Services for Joe Zahler will be Thursday, March 12th, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Cloyd Chapel, Funeral Mass will be Friday, March 13, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in St. Leo's Catholic Church with committal to follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. The Cloyd Funeral Home is assisting the family.

The family asks that donations be made in Joe's memory to the Community Cupboard, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Cross Catholic Outreach or the Great Falls Rescue Mission, donations may be left at the Cloyd Funeral Home. Condolences for the family can be posted online at www.cloydfuneralhome.com