On December 18 it was cold outside, but inside the small Mineral County Extension Office in Superior, it was filled with warmth and gratitude. Gratitude toward Sharon Patterson for “nineteen years of loyal and dedicated service to Mineral County” according to a press release from their office.

Patterson began working for Mineral County in 1997, starting as a clerk in the Treasurer’s Office. She later joined the Mineral County Montana State University Extension Office as the Administrative Assistant in 1999.  During that time she worked with the 4-H youth program, economic development, weed district, and conservation district; and served the people of Mineral County with a variety of roles and services.

Community members from across the county stopped by the Extension Office to wish Patterson well and enjoyed a spread of tasty snacks and warm drinks throughout the day. County Commissioners Laurie Johnston, Duane Simons, and Roman Zylawy presented her with a plaque which honored her service, along with Extension Agents Kevin Chamberlain and Dave Brink who shared their gratitude as well.  

“She got a little choked up when she received her plaque,” said Emily Parks, who was recently hired to replace Patterson, “a lot of people came by all afternoon, and she had a good time.”

Patterson is still on several committees and will continue to “pop in and out of the office,” said Parks. 

Patterson said that she’s looking forward to retirement and plans on traveling with her husband to visit her grandkids who live in Virginia, Texas and Missoula.