Patricia M. (Lensing) Reed

Pat Reed, 86, of Hamilton died of natural causes, September 27, 2017 in Hamilton. She was born Patricia May Lensing June 17, 1931 in Deer Lodge, the daughter of Al and Ora Bell Lensing who had a ranch in the Blackfoot.  The family moved to the Bitterroot in 1938 where she was raised on a farm in Corvallis.

Pat was honest, straightforward and a very hard worker.  She did many things in her life, including working in logging camps, ranching, outfitting, as well as working in the public. Raising her children was challenging, but Pat found ways to instill her love to work, honesty, and respect for others as well as to cherish our beautiful valley.  She loved her Creator, her family and all animals, especially dogs, horses and birds.  She enjoyed people, ice cream, sawdust pie, the Montana Grizzlies as well as knitting and crocheting.  She was known for her excellent cooking skills and had a very generous heart.  We will miss her whit, humor and wisdom.  She was easy to get along with as long as you didn't tell her "No".  Pat had a mind of her own and wasn't afraid to "Gallop" in life.  Truly an old-time Bitterrooter whom we love and will miss very much.

She is preceded in death by her parents Al & Ora Bell Lensing, her two sons Robin J. Petri and Kevin J. Petri, and her sister Jeri Jacobson.

She is survived by her sons, Cliff Reed (Terry), Douglas J. Petri (Candace); daughters, Stephanie Salter (David), Dallas Reed; her sister, Mavis Wilson (Reg), many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

There will be a private family interment. Family suggests that memorials be made to the Bitterroot Humane Society. 

The family wishes to thank the entire staff at the Discovery Care Centre for their compassionate care.