Perry Wilburn Padgett Jr., 84

On Sept. 15, 2015, Perry Wilburn Padgett Jr. passed away peacefully in his home, at the age of 84. His final days were spent surrounded by the care of his loved ones.

Perry was born in Columbia Falls on March 19, 1931, to Perry Sr. and Bettie Padgett. He lived his early years in Polebridge prior to moving to Columbia Falls.

In 1952 he married the love of his life, Fairelyn Joy Staaleson. The property where they wed became their lifelong home.

“Papa” Perry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was an honorable man who worked hard for his family and spared no hesitation when helping a neighbor in need. He welcomed all who crossed his path with an open heart, firm handshake, meaningful conversation and a hot cup of coffee. He was known for his ability to fix just about anything; whether it be a broken down tractor or a truck stuck in the mud, he had the tools and the know-how to solve the problem. And if you had a broken heart, one of his infamous bear hugs was sure to put the pieces back together.

He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, William and Margie Padgett. He is also survived by his children, Perry III “Sam” and Ida Padgett of Georgia, and a daughter-in-law Valerie Padgett of Columbia Falls, Shannon Padgett, DeWayne and Vicki Padgett of Columbia Falls, and Wiletta and Devin Harris of Oregon. His grandchildren are Bettie Jane Padgett, Michael Padgett, Richard and Val Butts, Tim Padgett, Julie and Nick King, Robert Butts, Lacey and Mark Pederson, Rory Butts, Chelsey Padgett, Sandie, Samuel and Jeremy Padgett, and Benjamin, Sarianne and Alleya Harris. Amongst his many great-grandchildren are Kyler and Kaylee King, as well as Xzander and Brinley Lobaugh, all of Columbia Falls. Perry also had numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and more devoted friends than can be counted.

He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; siblings, Grace Bachmeier, Leona Brix and Floyd Padgett; and son, Jeffrey Padgett.

Perry’s absence will be felt deeply by all who knew him.

 A celebration of his life will be held and lunch will be served by his family on Sunday, Sept. 27, at the North Valley Community Center in Columbia Falls, beginning at noon.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers a donation may be made to one of the local search and rescue teams.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to Two Bear Air Rescue, Flathead and Lake Counties’ Search and Rescue, North Valley Search and Rescue, Frontier Home Health and Hospice, Columbia Falls Senior Center and Meals on Wheels, Dr. Derek Gedlaman, Dixie Jones, and his dear friend Forrest Prichard.

Columbia Mortuary is caring for Perry’s family.