Patricia Ann Stish

Patricia passed away surrounded by loving family members at her home on February 26, 2025, at the age of ninety-five. Pat as she was known to family and friends, was born August 29, 1929, in Bemidji, Minnesota to Peter and Sarah Lenahan. Pat had an older brother James (Jimmy) Joseph. Pat graduated from high school in Bemidji, Minnesota in 1947. She married Henry W. Stish on March 20, 1948. That same year, the newlyweds moved to St. Ignatius, Montana. Together they had three daughters Marcia, Mary Lou, and Peggy. The family moved to Stevensville, Montana in 1951 and then in 1961 to Grand Forks, North Dakota, finally settling down roots in 1962 in Dillon, Montana where she lived the remainder of her years.

While in Dillon, Pat was active in Soroptimist, Philanthropic Education Organization (PEO), American Legion Drum Corps, she was a Brownie Scout leader for her girl's troop, and she was a member of several bridge clubs, including Faculty Bridge. Pat also had a love of sports playing in women's bowling leagues and the Beaverhead Lady's Golf league, winning the club championship in 1979. Pat was dedicated to her daily gym workouts followed by coffee and cards with friends, especially the Pink Sensations. She was known as a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church, where they have had a back row pew reserved just for Pat and her friends.

Starting in 1977, Pat and Carol Dickenson began managing the Beaverhead Country Club and Pro shop. After two years with Carol, Pat continued in her management of the Country Club for more than thirteen years combining a career with her love of sports, friends, and family.

Pat loved her family and could often be found playing golf, staying the weekend skiing, and ice- skating with her daughters and grandkids and she would never miss a grandkids event. She lovingly texted her family every day signing off with "love grandma Pat." In the summertime Pat could be found taking family road trips back to Minnesota to visit with relatives. Mary Lou kept the tradition going making it an annual event. Other favorite hobbies included solving puzzles, reading, and snacking while watching TV. Celebrations with friends were often and included monthly birthday girls' lunches.

Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Sarah, her brother Jimmy, her son-in- law Dick McCracken, and her husband of sixty-five years Henry.

Patricia is survived by her children Marcia McCracken of Polaris, Mary Lou (David) Wilson of Manhattan, Peggy (Mike) Naegele of Helena. Her grandchildren Brad Naegele, Brendan Naegele, Megan (Burke) Nelson, and Ryan (Jenny) McCracken; and four great grandchildren Danika Nelson, Mckall Nelson, Liam McCracken, and Colin McCracken. She is also survived by cousins and numerous dear friends who will all miss her immensely.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the First Presbyterian Church Pastoral Care Team and Honeybee Hospice for their care and support. 

There will be a memorial service for Pat on Thursday, March 6 th at 1:00pm at the First Presbyterian Church in Dillon, Montana with reception to follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to Southwestern Montana Family YMCA, Dillon Junior Golf c/o Pioneer Federal or donors' choice.