In Re the Marriage of Cole

This is an appeal from a dissolution and custody proceeding arising from the Twelfth Judicial District in and for Hill County, Montana. Husband appeals both from the custody and dissolution determination, as well as collateral issues. We affirm in full.

James and Marilyn Cole were married in March of 1974. During their twelve year marriage, they bore two children, Christen, age 7 at the time of this appeal, and Robby, age 5. Both Christen and Robby are gifted children; Robby, however, is diagnosed as a Down’s Syndrome child and continues to manifest a learning and physical disability.

Because…