MISSOULA - Jeff Shatto, 43, passed away at his home Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2005, after a long, courageous fight against melanoma cancer. He was surrounded by his family and friends. Jeffrey Dean Shatto was born in Emmetsburg, Iowa, in 1961 to Delmer and June Shatto. His family moved to Missoula when he was 3. Jeff graduated from Hellgate High School in 1980. After two years at Montana State University, he returned to Missoula. He has been a geo-technical engineer at GMT Consultants for the last 13 years. Jeff was preceded in death by his mother June Marie Shatto. He is survived by his father Delmer Shatto and family friend Mary Thurston, both of Missoula; two brothers, Ken of Missoula and Ron and wife Holly of Kalispell; five sisters, Dixie Smith and husband Verlyn of Minnesota, Kathy Haddick and husband Gale of Polson, Susie Haberkon and husband Don of New Mexico, Monica and companion Ron Scheibner of Missoula, and Karen Hines and husband Ron of Colorado. He is also survived by his very best friend Pam Erickson and their "kids" Knipper and Hunter, and Pam's mom Jo Smith. Jeff loved children and will be missed by many whose lives he influenced, including many nieces and nephews. Jeff's many interests included bowling, softball, reading and watching NASCAR racing with his dad, but his true passion was being in the outdoors. He loved to fish and hunt. Some of his best times were spent at hunting camp with his many friends. Jeff was a very caring person, always giving of himself. He was respected for his honesty and integrity. He will be missed by all who love him. Memorial services will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Jeff's wish was to have his ashes scattered Oct. 22, 2005, at his favorite hunting spot known as Jeff's Gate. In lieu of flowers, we request memorials be sent to Partners Hospice and Palliative Care Services.