Jacqueline 'Jackie' Ann Skuletich McGregor, 73

Jacqueline “Jackie” Ann Skuletich McGregor, Butte girl born and raised, and longtime resident of the Flathead Valley, passed away Dec. 2, 2020, at the age of 73.

Jackie was born on Aug. 5, 1947, the oldest child of Lewis and Sylvia Skuletich. Outgoing and active in high school, she was a member of the Butte High School Twirlers, numerous school clubs and the graduating class of 1965. She attended Montana State University, where she was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority.

In 1967 she married her high school boyfriend, Dan Ryan. Her love of family was increased exponentially with the addition of daughter Lisa in 1968 and Shawn in 1970.

A high school stint working at the Butte train depot eventually led to a 32-year railroad career, including Northern Pacific, Burlington Northern and Amtrak. Her dedication and excellent work performance through extremely early mornings, long commutes and job transfers, earned her several promotions and lead to numerous cherished friendships. It was also where she met her lifetime partner and best friend, husband Pat McGregor. The two celebrated 37 years of marriage in November. Pat became a dedicated and adoptive father to her youngest daughter, Linsey.

Those who knew her remember a compassionate, generous and charismatic woman who would light up a room and warm it with her laughter. She was always available for long phone conversations, free advice and devoted friendship. She loved to stay busy and involved in social activities. She was a skilled trap shooter, loved to bowl and golf, was a member of a decades old Bunko team, and regularly met friends for lunches, dinners and celebrations. More importantly, Jackie will be forever known for her unwavering love for her family. She traveled frequently to Butte to visit her parents and felt their loss immensely. Her children all have stories of a fierce mama bear who came to their aid and defense and helped them find their own paths to success. Her favorite role was that of "Baba" to her grandchildren and she wholeheartedly wanted the very best for them. She is survived by her husband, Pat McGregor; daughter, Lisa Manley (Scott); son, Shawn Ryan (Melanie Golie); daughter, Linsey Harrod (Jesse); brothers, Gary and Rich; and grandchildren, Logan and Dillon Manley, Ryden and Jeslynn Harrod. So wide was her circle of influence that it is impossible to list all of the people she held in her heart.

A private burial was held by her family in Butte. A public celebration of her life will be planned for this spring or summer when it is safe to do so.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested in her memory to the Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church of Butte.