Author Event: Bill Troutwine

Bill Troutwine, who worked for years in law enforcement in Montana, will read from, discuss and sign his book, The Life and Times of "Wild Bill Troutwine": Short Stories as told by “The Last Gunslinger" on Saturday evening, February 3, from 5:30 to 7:00.

The Life and Times of “Wild Bill Troutwine is a collection of short stories and anecdotes taken from Bill’s life. Some are funny, some are completely serious. Most of them can be read in five or ten minutes. The fact that some of the stories take place near Billings should provide an additional interest to readers. A former sheriff in Carbon County and part-time city officer in Red Lodge, Troutwine also served as the deputy sheriff in Big Sky and the sheriff in Petroleum County.

Book Summary

Bill Troutwine was always aware he had led a more adventurous life than most people. Writing a book was not something he ever considered. At the encouragement of family, he wrote a few short stories for his grandchildren.  Extended family and friends began to ask for copies and encouraged him to keep writing. This resulted in a collection of short stories taken from the very interesting life Bill has lived.  To read this book is to get lost in his life adventures. Some stories are funny, and some are serious. You will become involved in the action, whether in a shootout on the streets of Jefferson County, Kentucky; a riot in the street in Belfry, Montana; wrestling a mountain lion on a mountain near Libby, Montana; being stranded in the tundra of Alaska; or recruiting Yellowstone grizzly bears to rid a campground of a motorcycle gang. You will experience a range of emotions from laughter to the seriousness of saving lives. You will feel the special bond formed between a man and a wild mustang, the excitement of mountain rescues, the challenges of law enforcement, and the dedication of family. Most of all, you will see Montana through the eyes of someone who is totally captivated by the beauty and mystique of this expansive country.

About the Author

Bill Troutwine was born and raised in Kentucky where he started a career in law enforcement and aviation. Later he followed his dream to move to Montana where he bought a store in Belfry. As fate would have it, he was drawn back to law enforcement and attended the Montana Law Enforcement Academy. His career in law enforcement lead him into many search and rescue situations.

After living in Montana for 15 years, Bill and Donna Troutwine moved to a farm in Adair County, Kentucky where they enjoy visits from their four children, six grandchildren, and other family and friends. They live on the farm with their treasured animals which include horses, goats, dogs, barn cats, ducks, geese, guineas, and chickens. He recently added beekeeping as another hobby. Although he claims to be “retired,” Bill remains in law enforcement as a Constable and also serves as Chaplain for the State Constable Association. He is active in his church and on the local airport board. In his spare time, he gives flying lessons.