Francis Paul Masa, 80

Francis Paul Masa, also known as Paul Masa, 80, a Western art dealer, passed away Friday, Oct. 10, 2008, at home surrounded by his family in Kalispell.

Paul Masa was born April 22, 1928, in Baker, the son of Frank Masa and Elizabeth (Sonsalla). He has two younger brothers, John and Tom Masa. Paul grew up during the Depression on a family farm near Marmarth, N.D., and attended local schools.

Paul said, "My dad was a hard worker. I learned to work. He gave me the best education I ever got, hard work." In his pursuit of "chasing the dollar," he worked various positions in his life. He was a determined, strong-willed, loving man. He was a generous benefactor to many local groups and charitable causes. Paul's work ethic carried him through life until his final days.

As a young man he worked at the family farm and ranch. He also worked for neighbors driving tractors. Finally, at age 19, he drove his first car. Paul then worked various jobs including the railroad, until he was drafted to the U.S. Army in 1950 from Marmarth, N.D.

He served in the Korean War as a mortar gunner. While in Korea, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for unhesitant devotion to duty, tireless efforts and aggressive initiative; he contributed immeasurably to the successful accomplishment of his unit's missions, and the medal reflects great credit on himself and the United States infantry. Paul willingly worked excessively long and arduous hours without proper food or rest under enemy fire to lend support to the Infantry units in the field and to help accomplish the many other fire missions.

Upon his discharge he worked jobs in farming and construction. He then went on to work for Montana Dakota Utility as the plant manager and worked an additional part-time job as a bartender in Baker. There he met Doris, his wife, at a New Year's Eve dance.

Paul and Doris were married in Baker on Dec. 13, 1958. Paul and Doris leased a bar in Baker for four years.

After vacationing in the Kalispell area, Paul and Doris decided to make Kalispell their home, purchasing the Log Cabin Bar. On the side, Paul began to sell art. Paul and Doris ran a successful business for more than 19 years in Kalispell. Paul then pursued his side business as a Western art dealer full time.

Paul and Doris bought, sold, and traded art and bronzes from 1983 until his death. This was Paul's business, but also his passion. He loved every minute of wheeling and dealing when selling art with his friends and colleagues. His upbringing and belief in work kept him an active businessman. He attended more than 40 auctions in Great Falls. Paul was well known and leaves behind many dear family, friends and business associates.

Paul received many awards. In 2004, he was the winner of the "Bob Scriber Bronze Award" for his outstanding contributions to the C.M. Russell auction and the field of Western art. In 2007, he was awarded "The Mentor Award," recognized as one of the most knowledgeable and informed art dealers operating in the western United States. In this capacity he has seen fit to share his art and business expertise with others in the field.

Paul and Doris enjoyed many fishing trips together as avid fishers, including trips to Alaska for salmon. Paul greatly enjoyed spending time with his family. He hosted an annual Fourth of July party at the lake and was the grill master, if you like a rare burger.

Paul was preceded in death by a great-granddaughter, Jessica Masa.

Paul is survived by his wife of 50 years, Doris Masa; his son, Larry Masa and his wife, Kathy Masa; their children, Melissa Sedivy (Masa) and her husband, Mark Sedivy, and their children, Zachary and Damon Sedivy; Paul Masa and his wife, Rubianna Masa, and their children, Rebecca, Ariana, and Keirra Masa; Andy Masa and his wife, Jodi Masa, and their children, Caden, Cole, and Cooper Masa; and two brothers, John Masa of Miles City, and Tom Masa of Minot, N.D.

Funeral services for Paul will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, at St. Matthew's Catholic Church. Burial will be afterward at Glacier Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from noon to 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, in the Johnson-Gloschat Funeral chapel. Military honors will be by the United Veterans of the Flathead.

In appreciation, Paul wishes that all memorial donations be made to Hospice, 175 Commons Loop, Suite 100, Kalispell, MT 59901. The family wishes to thank everyone for all their thoughts and prayers.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Paul's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and sign Paul's guest book.