Then and Now...
Montana Machine and Fabrication essentially began when W.R. Grace closed its Libby operation in September of 1990, leaving foreman of the milling crew, LeRoy Thom, out of a job. Working with partner at the time, Bob Kraus, and their respective families, the two secured a loan from the Zonolite Employees Credit Union and purchased equipment from their former employer, W.R. Grace.
Beginning with a 40’x70’ fabrication shop and 40’x30 storage area in what was formerly the location of “Bill’s Bargains”, LeRoy and Bob created a heavy machine shop that could rival any in the Northwest.
Montana Machine and Fabrication officially opened for business on Monday, January, 20th 1992 with capabilities far beyond anything in Libby and the surrounding area for industrial machining, welding, fabrication and repairs.
Montana Machine and Fabrication's grand opening announced in the Western News
Montana Machine and Fabrication’s January 22nd, 1992 ad in the Western News.
