Rocky Karst, 67, peacefully passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the Billings Clinic in Billings, MT with family by his side.

Rocky Leroy Karst, age 67, passed away on January 19, 2026, at Billings Clinic, surrounded by his family.
Rocky was born on June 6, 1958, in Sidney, Montana, to Don Karst and Anna (Payette) Kukus. He was raised in Fairview, Montana, where he attended school and formed many lifelong friendships. At a young age, Rocky met the love of his life, Lynette Valnes. They were married for 25 years raising two children and creating many cherished family memories. Although their marriage did not stand the test of time, they remained friends.

Rocky spent many years working hard and traveling for his career. He worked for several years as a ditch rider for the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project, often bringing his children along and turning workdays into special memories. He worked for Neighbors Drilling alongside his close friend Tim Spaabeck. They traveled extensively for work and remained close companions even in their free time, often enjoying barbeque and a cold beer. Rocky spent his final working years at NorthStar.

Rocky deeply loved his late sister, Dawnette, and the two spent countless hours talking and reminiscing about good times. He also shared a strong bond with his sister Beth, who was always there for him and someone he trusted and relied upon. His best friend and fiercest foe was his brother Rusty, no matter what they had each other’s back.
A true outdoorsman, Rocky loved fishing, agriculture, and working the land. Whenever he could, he helped Rusty and Don with farming and always made time to grow a beautiful garden. Even after retirement, Rocky stayed busy working outdoors, fixing things, maintaining his yard, and helping his father and brother.

A devoted father, Rocky deeply loved his children, Shawnette and Jordon Karst, and was always willing to help them, no matter the circumstance. He was known as one of the strongest and toughest men many had ever met—a man who never backed down from a challenge. A jack of all trades, Rocky believed in doing things the right way and was always willing to help anyone in need. He was Blessed with many lifelong friends.

Rocky is survived by his father, Don Karst; children, Shawnette Karst and Jordon (Martha) Karst; his grandsons, Aiden Albert, Junior Montgomery, Eric Tikolevu, and Braylon Karst; his brother, Rusty Karst; his sister, Beth (Larry) Mindt; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Anna Payette Kukus; stepfather, Arnie Kukus; father-in-law, Larry Valnes; sister, Dawnette Karst Thilquist; grandparents Harry and Dorcus Payette, Ruth and Grandpa Karst.