Patricia Lynn Hawley, 82

A “life well lived” is how Patricia experienced life. It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Patricia Lynn Hawley, who passed away on Aug. 27, 2025, at the age of 82 while in hospice in Colorado with her family by her side.

Patricia was born Sept. 14,1942 to the late Helen and James Neilsen. Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved husband of over 50 years, James “Jim” Hawley. She is survived by their only son, Michael Hawley and his wife, Connie, along with her only granddaughter, Lauren Hawley; her older sister, Kathleen Kelly; and several Kelly and Carlson nephews and a niece.

Patricia was raised in an Army family with strong Irish traditions and obtained a bachelor's degree and multiple master's degrees while moving around frequently following her father's career with the U.S. Army. She continued this trend while following her husband's career also with the U.S. Army till he retired as a Colonel. They built their last home together in Bigfork, approximately 20 years ago. 

In her career life, Patricia worked as an educator, interior decorator, model (briefly) and a business owner. She also loved working for and with the Catholic church in the many different parishes where she had lived. Everyone who met Paticia knew her as a passionate and fun-loving faith-based woman who helped and cared for others, and she enjoyed the theater, arts, music and entertaining friends.

Services to celebrate Patricia's life will be held at St. John Paul II Catholic Church in Bigfork on Friday, Sept. 12. Rosary will be said at 10:30 a.m. with a funeral Mass following at 11 a.m. She will be interned at the Bigfork Community Cemetery next to Jim.

Donations on Patricia’s behalf can be made to St. John Paul II Catholic Church (by check) or the American Heart Association.

She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered and forever loved.