CLARK FORK — Patti Speelmon, a vital member of Bonner County and the Clark Fork community for more than 50 years, never hesitates to give assistance where needed without seeking acknowledgment.

Speelmon is among the five community residents selected as Women of Wisdom for 2022. Also selected were Karen Applegate, Diane Arrants, Sherry Ennis, and Roxie Lowther.

While working at the Bonner County Extension Office she collaborated with 4-H leaders to ensure the participants had all the necessary information and materials they needed to be successful. Being involved as a 4-H leader her programs were exemplary and she brought her vision for the annual fair event to life. Patti was the embodiment of the 4-H motto, To Make the Best Better, and pledge, I pledge my head to clearer thinking my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service and my health to better living for my club, my community, my country and my world. What an inspiration to other women wanting to be in a leadership role while empowering young women.

One can find Patti at most Clark Fork school home sporting events, either taking tickets, keeping score, cooking or baking for bake sales, fundraisers and team meals. Every Monday she supports the local soup kitchen that includes delivering meals to many homes. If there is a need for help for any program or event you will find Patti. She is there to do whatever is needed without question.

For many years Patti volunteered as an EMT for Clark Fork Fire and Ambulance. She also served on Search and Rescue. As a volunteer for these organizations you were needed any time day and night at the drop of a hat. Her children were young at the time so it took some maneuvering to run out the door and help out. She was always willing to offer her assistance to these groups.

She is an expert quilter, creating special pieces for Sandpoint High School and Clark Fork High School graduates, newborns in hospitals across the country, coworkers, friends, family and truly anyone who walks into her life. A custom quilt of their interests, uniquely designed for the recipient becomes a masterpiece straight from her fingertips.

Patti and her husband of 55 years, Lewis have raised two children, Melvin and Wendi. They also have four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Family is definitely a top priority for her. Her nominators have repeatedly mentioned how strong she is from battling and overcoming cancer to handling the loss of their son too young in life. Her composure and grace at these awful times has been inspiring.

By Patti’s nomination letters she is deserving of this nomination and respected in the community. She always seems happy and in a good mood making those around her feel good also. She is a true Woman of Wisdom perfect for this Lifetime Achievement Award.

To be nominated for Woman of Wisdom, candidates must be 65 years or older. She possesses vision and achieves goals through collaboration. She exhibits a love of learning through the pursuit of knowledge by study or experience. She shows a commitment to the Bonner County community and its members, and has had a positive impact, such as in the areas of art, music, theater, dance, sports, education and service. She demonstrates dedicated leadership that results in admiration and respect from others. She is an inspiration to others and an example for future generations of women. She faces life’s challenges with grace and courage, and lives with dignity, integrity and honor.

The Gala luncheon honoring the Women of Wisdom is scheduled for May 7, 2022 at the Ponderay Event Center, at 11:00 a.m. Gala luncheon reservations are now accepted until April 28, 2022 from Diane Stockton at 208-290-6362 or stockton_diane@yahoo.com, tickets are $30.00. The luncheon includes great food, a program introducing the 2022 Women of Wisdom to celebrate their Lifetime Achievement Award. Please plan to attend to honor these very special women.

The 2022 Women Honoring Women committee members are: Sue Brooks, Kathy Chambers, Patti Clemens, Deanna Harris, Alana Hatcher, Julie Jurenka, Pat Lewis, Debbie Love, Leslie Marshall, Barb Merritt, Jeralyn Mire, Marlene Rorke, Ann Ross, Sandy Ross, Tina Sleyster, Diane Stockton, Sally Transue and Cherie Warber.