Patrick M. Springer, 68
Patrick M. Springer, 68, loving husband, father and grandfather, left our world on June 10, 2007, after a long and courageous battle with prostate cancer. He was born on Feb. 5, 1939, in Mankato, Minn.
His passion for music led him to pursue a degree in composition and arranging of music from the University of Minnesota in Mankato. This same passion brought him to Montana in 1959 to play his music in Glacier National Park.
He returned to Minnesota to join the U.S. Army in 1961, serving in the special intelligence division.
On Oct. 16, 1965, he married Lorraine Jensen of St. James, Minn., and soon after returned to Montana to pursue a law degree, graduating in 1969 with his Juris Doctorate. He later settled in Kalispell, making a home for his wife and family.
He served as the County Attorney from 1974 to 1978, spent time as a Kalispell City Council member, was elected twice to the Study Commission and served on the Selective Service Draft Committee.
He was an active member of the community, participating in many organizations, including serving as the voice of the Kalispell Lakers for many years. Glacier Park and music remained his passions throughout his life.
Patrick is survived by his wife, Lorraine; two daughters, Mikelle Wiley and Travis of Kalispell, and Erika Taylor and Charles of Missoula; five grandchildren, Colten, Cody, Cailey, Cade and Creed Wiley; his brothers, Michael P. Springer. Jr., and Marty of Gulf Shores, Ala., and Stephen Springer of Mankato; his sister, Marylea Lombard and Jim, of Athens, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews and their families.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Lucy Springer.
The family will be holding a short celebration of his life at 4 p.m. Friday, June 15, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home
Cremation and arrangements are being handled by Buffalo Hill Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Flathead Valley Home Options Hospice program that took such great care of this special man. Donations may be sent to 175 Commons Loop, Suite 100, Kalispell, MT 59901.