Hamilton - Patricia Ann (Cunningham) Zeiler passed away on December 23rd from cardiomyopathy which developed after other health issues over the last few months. Pat was surrounded by her loving family at the end. The Zeilers would like to thank the wonderful doctors and staff at St. Pat's Hospital in Missoula, especially ICU nurse Taylor, for their care and compassion.
Pat was born in Wheaton, MN, to J. Thomas & Claire (Kleeman) Cunningham. The family moved to Victor, MT, where Pat graduated from high school in 1958. Pat, cute and petite, caught the eye of Richard H. ("Dick") Zeiler as she cruised around Stevensville in her turquoise Bel-Air hardtop delivering eggs for her family's farm. Dick & Pat eloped to Salmon, ID, in September of 1960, with two friends as their witnesses. They later had a ceremony at the St. Francis Catholic Church in Hamilton, at the insistence of the bride's parents. Dick & Pat were blessed with two children, Kelly and Kathy. Pat was like a second mom to many of the kids' friends as they were growing up. The Zeiler home was always a gathering place for extended family and friends.
Pat had two main careers outside of the home: She was an award-winning journalist and photographer for the Ravalli Republic in the 70's & early 80's. She then became a Realtor, working at the Nez Perce and Lone Pine agencies up to 2014. Pat loved being a Realtor and many clients became life-long friends. Pat would often cut her commission if that was what it took to help young couples afford the purchase of their first home.
Although she wasn't born here, Pat was a Bitterrooter at heart and in life, and was very active in the community. Pat served long tenures on the Ravalli County Parks Board, Weed Board, Planning Board, and Health Board. Pat served as an election judge for many years, was a former volunteer at Haven House, and volunteered at the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton for the last several years. Pat was also an avid gardener and reader and enjoyed traveling with her family.
Pat is survived by her husband of 56 years, Dick Zeiler; children Kelly Zeiler & Wendy Woods (Hamilton); Kathy Zeiler & Gary Ellis (Phoenix); her sister & brother-in-law, Peggi & Rich Correa (Gresham, OR); and her spoiled cats, Abby & Shea. Pat was a favorite aunt to several generations of nieces & nephews, and enjoyed being a step-grandparent.
Arrangements are under the care of the Daly-Leach Chapel in Hamilton. In lieu of flowers, Pat's family request donations be made to the Bitterroot Public Library.
The family will celebrate Pat's life with a gathering in Hamilton on her birthday on 7/24.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Patricia Ann Zeiler, please visit our flower store.
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