Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death.
Patricia Jean Neutgens, age 84, died on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2014, from complications of head and neck cancer. She died as she had lived, with great dignity, concern for others rather than herself and as an exceptionally devout Catholic. She was a very spiritual woman who handled herself with remarkable dignity despite the challenges she faced at the end of her life.
Pat was born on Sept. 9, 1930, in Wolf Point, Mont. to her parents, Florian John Neutgens and Hazel Ruth Clocksin. She had four siblings who all preceded her in death: Betty Boyd, Jim Neutgens, Arlo Neutgens and Richard Neutgens.
She lived and attended school in Wolf Point, Mont., and graduated valedictorian of her class in 1948. She married Eugene FitzSimmons on July 10, 1948 and together they had three sons, Ray, Doug and Gary. Eugene, Doug and Gary all preceded her in death.
Pat was divorced in 1963 and married Norbert “Doc” Dougherty in 1973. They made their home in Great Falls, Mont., until their marriage ended in 1986. During these years, Pat traveled extensively and enjoyed those travels immensely.
In addition to raising her three sons she worked numerous jobs. She was gifted with a remarkable mind and work ethic. Her favorite job was working as the first lay bookkeeper for the Ursuline Centre in Great Falls, Mont. She was very active in Cursillo through the Catholic Church. She became an enthusiastic Detroit Lions fan when her grandson Casey FitzSimmons played for them for seven years. She thoroughly enjoyed following his career on TV and at actual games when it was possible.
In July 2013, Pat moved from Great Falls to Washington State to receive medical care closer to her son, Ray. During that time she lived in The Dalles, Ore., and White Salmon. In August of 2014 she moved into assisted living at Cherry Street Manor II in White Salmon, where she received exceptional care under the watchful eyes and caring hearts of Lucinda and Rob Ezell. She had her friends call frequently and family and friends visited her almost daily.
Pat was held in high regard by her many family members and close friends. Her greatest love was to keep in touch with and be a part of the lives of all those who were dear to her. She had a strong moral code and an even stronger faith through her church.
Pat is survived by her son, Ray FitzSimmons (Joyce), daughter-in-law JoLynn FitzSimmons, and her six grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
There will be a Rosary at 2:30 p.m. and a Funeral Mass at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2014, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in White Salmon. Her ashes are to be buried with her parents in their family plot in Wolf Point, Mont., later this summer.
Pat requested that donations be made to the Ursuline Centre, 2300 Central Avenue, Great Falls, Mont., 59401, 406-452-8585.
To plant a tree in memory of Patricia Neutgens as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.
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