John J. Verbanac passed away peacefully at his home in East Helena on August 3, 2025.
Born on January 28, 1935, to Frank J. and Christina (Cestnik) Verbanac, John was a lifelong resident of East Helena, Montana. His roots ran deep in the community where he was born, raised, and chose to live out his days.
Throughout his life, John held a variety of roles that reflected his commitment to service and hard work. His career included positions with ASARCO, the United States Air Force (1954–1958), the Montana Dairy Milk Control Board, Carroll College (as a student), the City of East Helena, the Montana State Liquor Warehouse, and service as Mayor of East Helena. He was also a long-time member of the East Helena Volunteer Fire Department.
On April 23, 1960, John married Patricia E. Gailushas. Together, they shared 65 years of marriage and he built their family home next door to his childhood home, where they raised two sons and created a lifetime of lasting memories.
John’s favorite place was the cabin he built in the Elkhorn Mountains, using logs he milled himself on the land he owned. It was there that he found joy in hunting, prospecting, snowmobiling, and always tinkering—there was always a project to be done at the cabin he loved so much.
He was preceded in death by his sister Mary Ann (Joe) Schell and brother Frank J. (Myrna) Verbanac.
John is survived by his wife, Patricia E. Verbanac; sons John M. Verbanac of Helena, and Joseph D. (Chris) Verbanac of Jefferson City; along with several grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
In accordance with John’s wishes, private family services will be held.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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LINDA FRANKLIN says
Pat, John and Joe – sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Steve and Linda
Tina Pike says
Aunt Pat, John, Joe and Chris – how the memories of Uncle John come back! Dad (Joe Schell) always said that Uncle John was his best friend growing up in East Helena and the two of them could sit and laugh about their crazy teen antics any time they were together. Uncle John meant so much to my Mom, Mary Ann, all her life – he was one of her big brothers and he was always there for her. When my brothers and I spent time at Grandma and Grandpa Verbanac’s house we always had Uncle John, Aunt Pat, Johnny and Joe next door to help pass the time and include us in the family. My Uncle John will not be forgotten and I will treasure all the time i was able to spend with him, although not nearly enough in the last years. May you all find peace in knowing that he is being reunited with his family and will celebrate eternal life with our Lord. Love you all, Tina
Diane Trankel says
I’m sorry to hear about your Dad. John, I wanted you to know that I was thinking about you and wanted to let you know that I’m sorry your hurting. You’ll miss him. I dearly miss my Dad and he’s been gone for quite a while. I love knowing that we’ll be back with them someday. Take Care, Diane
Joseph F. Schell says
I will always remember my Uncle John as tough, caring, and larger than life. He also had a no-nonsense way about him that I occasionally remind myself to emulate. While some of us were planning and pondering, Uncle John was simply out there doing and getting it done, in his work, for his community, and especially for his family. My wife, Xee, and I send our condolences and very best wishes to the family and friends as we remember and honor Uncle John and as we move forward in our lives.
Doug Stipcich says
Pat,John and Joe. I am saddened to learn of John’s recent passing. Such a wonderful person that was always ready to lend a hand no matter the situation. I truly believe that one would be hard pressed to find someone as genuine as John. Try to find some solice in that. Another one of the East Helena “old guard” is gone. John and Joe, please give your mom a big hug for me and let her know I am thinking about all of you at this most difficult of times. That’s what she did for me when both my dad and mom passed away. It helped a ton.