Patricia Fieldhouse passed away peacefully December 28, 2018 12 days after her 86th birthday. Patricia was born Dec 16th, 1932 in Springdale, Pennsylvania to Eugene Pagett and Bernadette Conley Pagett. The family later moved to Hamilton IL where she was raised by her Aunt Grace and Uncle Arthur Kirchherr. After graduating high school Pat graduated from Western Illinois University with a teaching degree. She married Warren Fieldhouse in 1963 and their daughter, Julia, was born in 1966. Pat and Warren later divorced.
Pat’s first teaching assignment was in a one room school house in which she taught all eight grades. The remainder of her 32 years she taught mostly 3rd & 4th grades throughout Illinois. Pat was recognized for her collaborative teaching methods, a unique style that was studied and implemented by fellow teachers. In 1992, she reluctantly retired after her sight deteriorated due to macular degeneration. Pat moved to southern Colorado to be near her daughter and family. Determined to stay connected to teaching she volunteered at the local elementary school. In 1998, Pat accompanied her family and moved to Helena. She exemplified resolve through several severe illnesses and failing sight keeping her own home for 20 years. In 2013, Pat moved to Touchmark.
Pat was an active member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority for 50 years, most recently in the local chapter. She was a member at St. Paul Methodist Church in Helena. Pat loved cats, gardening, was an avid reader and a great customer of the Montana Talking Book Library.
Pat is survived by her grandchildren Sadie Viergutz and Levi Viergutz both of Missoula, son-in-law Mark Viergutz of Helena, nieces Carol Alder of St Anne IL, Linda Parker of Prescott, WI, Patricia/Ron Hagaman and family of PA, nephew David/Bonnie Parker and family of River Forest IL, cousin Patricia Joan Allen of Phoenix, AZ, and dear friend Wally Johnson of Touchmark.
She was preceded in death by her daughter Julia in November 2017 and by her siblings James F. Pagett, Eugene D. Pagett and Grace P. Parker.
The family expresses their gratitude to the nursing staff of St. Pete’s Oncology Unit and the wonderful family, friends and dedicated staff at Touchmark Living Center.
A memorial service will be held at Touchmark Living Center in the 2nd floor Forum Room on January 3rd at 2PM. A reception will follow.
Mark C Viergutz says
Service is Thursday January 3 at 2PM at Touchmark Living Center Forum room. 2nd Floor. Coffee, cookies/ice cream to follow. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Montana Talking Book Library or the American Cancer Society
Deena Verworn says
Pats family, I had the pleasure of knowing Pat the last few years. She was such a wonderful lady! I will miss her her sense of humor and kindness. Keeping her family in my thoughts and prayers.
Rita Newman says
I was in the sorority with Pat and enjoyed her friendship very much. She will be missed. Sorry I can’t make it to the reception for I have a Dr’s appt. at the same time. Cherish the memories. Rest in peace, Pat. Beta love,Rita Newman
Kori Dee says
Dear Pat’s family,
I will remember Pat’s lovely smile and gentle manner most of all. I enjoyed crossing paths at St. Paul’s. God has called home a beautiful faith servant.
Anna Stitt says
Mark, Sadie, and Levi – I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May all of your fond memories bring you comfort in the days ahead.