Paul 'Pat' Orr Sr., 85
Paul "Pat" Orr Sr., 85, of Kalispell peacefully "went home to be eternally with his Lord" on Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2008, at the Special Care Unit of the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.
Pat was born Feb. 25, 1922, in Libby to James and Anna Orr. One of eight children, he spent his early childhood years on the farm helping his parents and siblings. In 1944, following in the footsteps of three of his older brothers, he enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve his country during World War II. He served for two years before receiving an honorable discharge. While serving in the military, he earned the World War II Victory medal, the American Theater medal, the Bronze Star, the European-African-Middle-Eastern Campaign medal with three bronze service stars, and the Good Conduct medal. One would wonder how he had to time to earn those medals, because he also spent much time digging fox holes for disciplinary purposes!
After returning home he met and married Grace Jean Sindt on June 15, 1949, in Kalispell. From that marriage five children were born: Louise Ann, Paul Phillip Jr., Marlene Pauline, Darlene Arnelda, and Ellen Gladys. He was a hard worker who always provided for his family through many occupations consisting of dairy farmer, shoe salesman, delivery driver, custodian, bus driver, and his own business of selling popcorn on Main Street.
Pat was a longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where he faithfully served his Lord in various ministries.
A highlight in his life was receiving an honorary high-school diploma in 2003 from the state of Montana, as he never had completed high school.
In November 2001, he moved into the Montana State Veterans Home in Columbia Falls. When the new unit for Alzheimer's residents opened in February 2002, he was the first resident to move there. Under the loving care of the staff he lived out the rest of his days in the Special Care Unit, where he was known for his gardening skills, cows, smile, mischievous twinkle in his eyes, and his love of M & M candies.
Pat was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters; four brothers; one grandson; and nephews, nieces, and friends.
He is survived by his wife, Grace Jean Orr, of Elko, Nev.; one son, Paul Phillip Orr Jr., of Kalispell; four daughters, Louise Keith of Great Falls, Arlene Sevesind and husband, William, of Columbia Falls; Darlene Landsidel and husband, William, of Springcreek, Nev., Ellen Rowe and husband, James, of Kalispell; a brother, Marion Orr, and wife, Diane, of Libby; a sister-in-law, Mary Orr, of Kalispell; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews, nieces, and friends.
Funeral services for Pat will be held at 2:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4, in the Trinity Lutheran Church, conducted by the Rev. Mark Cutler and Jerry Schreck. Visitation will be from 1:30 p.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will be after services at the Glacier Memorial Gardens.
Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Pat's family. You are invited to go to www.johnsonmortuary.com to offer condolences and sign Pat's guest book.