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Patrick Rice Obituary
GREAT FALLS - Patrick "Pat" William Rice, 70, passed away Wednesday, January 16, 2019 of complications from heart disease.
The fourth of Mary and John Rice's seven children, Pat was born June 12, 1948, in Great Falls. He attended schools here, graduating from Great Falls Central High School. He went to Santa Clara University where he earned a bachelor's degree before pursuing post-graduate studies at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. He returned to Santa Clara to earn his law degree.
After graduation, Pat returned to Great Falls and began his lifelong career with Transystems (Rice Truck Lines), a company founded by his father during World War II. Pat worked there until his unexpected death.
Pat's primary focus was his family and the people with whom he worked. He also had great devotion to Easter Seals-Goodwill, following in the footsteps of his brother Mike. Pat served on the organization's regional board beginning in 1990 and ending with his death.
Pat was proud of the work Easter Seals-Goodwill does and wholeheartedly believed in the organization's mission. He once said in a newspaper interview, "In my volunteer work, I like to be involved in organizations that serve people."
His devotion to Easter Seals-Goodwill did not go unnoticed. In 2009, Pat was chosen as volunteer of the year from among the 50,000 Easter Seals Inc. volunteers worldwide.
Pat is survived by his siblings, Kathy, Peter (Stella), Rosemary (Ray) and Dan (Jackie); sister-in-law Patti; nephews and nieces John, Ashley, Carrie, Jason, Liz, Katie, Maureen, Daniel, Errol and Curran; several great-nieces and nephews; and long-time family friends, Allan and Tina Rabbitt. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Mike; nephew Barney; and infant sister, Maureen.
A funeral liturgy will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 22, 2019 at the University of Providence's Trinitas Chapel. Private family inurnment will follow. Those attending are encouraged to park in the east parking lot. Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.
Condolences for the family may be posted online at www.SchniderFuneralHome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Patrick Rice
Sponsored by Schnider Funeral Home - Great Falls.
February 20, 2019
I have been Pats barber for the past 50 Years. What a great person. Pat was always quiet, but we did have many great conversations. I know he always looked forward to going to Ray & Rosemary Waters for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
I was surprised at his passing, he will be truly missed.
Respectfully,
Jerel Gustafson
January 22, 2019
Pat Rice Family we are so sorry for your loss of a loved one. Cherish the memories and love you have. Lots of memories at the Rice Building. God Bless you. Martin and Beth Bauer Great Falls, Mt.
THOMAS ZADICK
January 21, 2019
Pat's Family,
I remember him as quiet, eager, pleasont and supportive. We all can learn a lesson from that. I am so sorry for your loss. He will be missed.
Barbara Sutton
January 21, 2019
My deepest sympathy for your loss. May the God of Comfort, continue to comfort the family during these difficult time. May he continue to give support and loving kindness to all. 1 Cor 1:3&4
Ray Gallagher Family
January 21, 2019
Sorry to hear of his passing,
Jane Weber
January 20, 2019
Dear Pete and family, Was so saddened to hear of Pat's sudden death. He was always someone who could be counted for many after school projects and he did so with a smile. I am in Kalispell this week helping my brother Steve recouperate from hip surgery. Siblings are so special. Hugs and prayers to you all.
January 20, 2019
My condolences to all Pat's family members and many friends he has gathered in his kind heart.
I'm extremely saddened of Pat's passing. Pat was so kind, caring, I truly cherished our friendship. Our conversations were short, but, nevertheless important to me.
Pat, you are so truly missed.
Stacey
Kristen Juras
January 18, 2019
Patrick brought light wherever he went. The world will be a darker place without him. Godspeed Pat.
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