Cruea

BILLINGS - Heaven needed a good lead mechanic, so God called Justin Clay Cruea on Nov. 21, 2017. He was born to Robin Smith and Rick Cruea on Oct. 2, 1989. Justin was born in Tucson, Ariz. His family moved to Montana 1998. Justin’s preteen and teenage years were spent growing up with his brother Cody Cruea in Columbus, Mont. Justin graduated from Columbus High School in 2008. While in high school he met the love of his life, Tabitha Watkins. Tabitha complimented Justin’s good nature and love of animals. He loved genuine people.
After graduation, Justin pursued a diesel mechanics degree at UTI, and earned an AOS in Diesel Technology in 2009. Justin married his wife and partner Tabitha in 2013. Justin was a family man who always put his wife and son, Colt, first. He had a huge heart that welcomed many foster children into his home that he loved unconditionally. He was an avid outdoorsmen; he shared his love for rafting, fishing, and hunting with his friends Donny Bennett and Mark Milkiewicz.
Justin gained another brother through marriage, Chance. He also gained three sisters Samantha, Jacquelyn, and Charity. A good teasing and big laugh were always in order when they were together. He loved his nephews Payton, Caleb, and had yet to meet his newest, Brooks.
Justin was preceded in death by his Papa Oscar. He is survived by his wife Tabitha and son, Colt; his parents Robin (John) Smith and Rick (Christina) Cruea; grandparents Sandra Strom, Darrell (Maria) Collins, Rick and Annette Cruea, Patricia and John Bushey; brother Cody (Eve) Cruea, and step sisters Samantha and Jacquelyn; uncles Wesley (Cathy), Robert (Amber) and Tim; aunts Cherrie (Loyd), Tiffany (Daniel), and Patricia; and numerous cousins and relatives.
Smith Funeral Home in Laurel handled funeral proceedings. Cremation has taken place. Services were held on Nov. 27, 2017, at the Columbus Evangelical Church.
Donations for Tabitha and Colt can be made through First Interstate Bank Columbus.