Patrick Raymond Corey

Our beloved husband and father, Patrick "Pat" Corey, passed away peacefully on November 5th, surrounded by his family, at Onvida Health in Yuma, Arizona, following health complications. Pat was born on August 8th, 1944, in Baker, Montana, to Ray and Anastasia (Whalen) Corey.

Pat met the love of his life, Sharrie Cox, when he was just 15 years old. Their bond endured through the years, and they were married on December 18th, 1971, in their hometown of Baker. He attended Carroll College before enlisting in the US Army and serving in the Vietnam War. After his service, Pat continued his education at Montana State University, earning degrees in English and Marketing. Over the next 53 years, Pat and Sharrie built a beautiful life together–raising four children in Bozeman, Montana, and later settling in Arizona, where they welcomed two cherished granddaughters into their loving family.

Pat built a distinguished career in the insurance industry, focusing on providing risk management for banks. For more than 40 years, he dedicated himself to supporting community and regional banks, earning a reputation as a trusted partner and true expert in his field. In 2002, Pat and Sharrie founded Independent Bankers Insurance Services (IBIS), blending Pat's industry knowledge with their shared commitment and hard work. He truly loved his profession and was deeply proud when both of his sons chose to join the family business. After the loss of their oldest son, Aaron, Pat carried his memory with him and continued the work they had begun together with quiet devotion. In 2019, Pat and Sharrie sold the business and retired, grateful for the many relationships, experiences, and accomplishments that had shaped their professional lives. His son, Justin, continues Pat's legacy through his work with the national brokerage that acquired IBIS, carrying forward the industry knowledge and values that defined Pat's career.

Pat was never happier than when he was surrounded by family and friends. Social, witty, charismatic, and endlessly positive, he carried a magnetic spirit that brought joy and laughter wherever he went. A proud and loyal supporter of the Democratic Party, he loved the everyday joys of life–playing golf, watching sports, enjoying good food, listening to music, and grilling his legendary steaks. Pat was a bright, shining light to all who knew him, someone who fully embraced each moment and cherished the people around him. His passing is a profound loss, yet he remains a lasting beacon–an example of what it means to love deeply, live fully, and find the best in every moment.

Pat was preceded in death by his son, Aaron Corey; his parents, Ray and Stacia Corey; his siblings, Marge Whalen, Marlene (Denzil) Young, Norma (Bob) Tatarka, and Howard (Iris) Corey; his in-laws Robert and Virginia Cox, Lonna Corey, Denzil Young, Bob Tatarka, and Douglas Cox; and his nephew, Robby Cox.

He is survived by his wife, Sharrie Corey; his children, Kristin Corey, Justin (Brigitte) Corey, and Andrea Corey; his granddaughters, Ava and Brooklyn Corey; his brother James Corey; brothers and sisters-in law, Lynn (Fred) Scott, Robert (Karen) Cox, Susan (Douglas) Cox, Iris (Howard) Corey; and numerous cherished nieces, nephews and friends.

Pat received exceptional care from his in-home nurses. His family is deeply grateful for the comfort, compassion, and laughter they brought him in his final years.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Scottsdale in February. Additional details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Foundation for the Blind, the Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation, or a charity of your choice.