Paul Emil Bley, 57

Paul Emil Bley, 57, passed away tragically as a result of an automobile accident on Thursday morning, Sept. 15, 2005, outside of Geraldine.

A vigil service will be held 7 p.m. Sunday evening at St. Margaret Mary's Catholic Church in Big Sandy. A funeral mass will be held 11 a.m. Monday morning also at the Catholic Church in Big Sandy with a reception following. Family graveside services will be held Tuesday in Kalispell, at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery.

Paul was born to Melvin and Ruth Bley in Havre, on May 5, 1948. He was raised on a family farm eight miles west of Big Sandy. After graduating from Big Sandy High School in 1966, he went on to attend Northern Montana College in Havre, earning a degree in agricultural studies with a business minor.

Paul was married to Valerie Morger in January 1973. Together they had four daughters, Erin, Tessa, Jenna, and Emily. Paul and Valerie later divorced in 1996. Paul continued farming the family farm, dividing his time between Big Sandy and Kalispell. He was a loving son, brother, father, and most recently a grandfather.

Paul enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and gathering with his friends. His other great loves were traveling and cooking. Most of all, nothing captured his heart more than spending time with his family and his girls, whom were always his pride and joy.

Survivors include children, Erin Bley of Fort Benton, Tessa and Tom McGree of Kalispell, Jenna Bley of Highlands Ranch, Colo., and Emily Bley of Kalispell (currently attending The University of Montana - Missoula); mother, Ruth Bley of Kalispell; sister Donna and Gary Richner of Big Rapids, Mich.; a nephew, Chad and Lori Richner of South Bend, Ind.; a niece, DeAnn Richner and son, Peter Jr., also of Big Rapids; and granddaughter, Molly McGree of Kalispell.

Paul was preceded in death by his father Melvin in June 1974.

The family is asking that all donations be made to: Paul Bley Memorial , Wells Fargo Bank, #1 Johannes Ave., Big Sandy, MT 59520