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Paul "Pat" Orr, Sr.

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 WWII. He served for two years before receiving an honorable discharge. While serving in the military he earned the WWII Victory Medal, the American Theater Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, the European-African-Middle-Eastern Campaign Medal with three bronze service stars, and the Good Conduct Medal. One would wonder how he had time to earn those medals since 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 of his life was receiving an honorary high school diploma in 2003 from the State of Montana as he had never completed high school.

In November 2001 he moved into the Montana State Veteran's 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 her husband William of Columbia Falls, Darlene Landsidel and her husband William of Springcreek, Nev., Ellen Rowe and her husband James of Kalispell; a brother Marion Orr and his 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 were held at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 4, 2008 in the Trinity Lutheran Church, conducted by Pastor Mark Cutler and Jerry Schreck. Burial followed at the Glacier Memorial Gardens.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Pat's family. Friends and family are invited to go to www.johnsonmortuary.com to offer condolences and sign Pat's guest book.