Jerry L. Chance

Jerry L. Chance, 74, of Missoula, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, at Providence St. Patrick’s Hospital very unexpectedly.

He was born on Jan. 28, 1951, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to James and Geneive Chance. His family moved to Troy, Montana in 1968 where he finished high school. He moved to Missoula in 1984 where he worked laying tile until he retired.

Jerry was a longtime member of the Corvette Club, snowmobilers club, and raced a stock car that he built. He earned many trophies. He enjoyed gardening – vegetables, fruit trees and flowers. He also loved hiking, biking and fishing.

Jerry made a wonderful lasting impression on every person he met. His sense of humor and grin would warm everyone’s heart and they had no choice to smile back. He had a special place in his heart for children and they loved him too. 

The last years of his life were spent with his numerous great nieces and great nephews. They were all so special to him especially the youngest one, Lilly. Lilly and her mom lived with Uncle Jerry for the last six years. Every waking moment was spent together hiking, biking or going to different parks. He would take her to school and pick her up every day since kindergarten. They would even manage to have adventures on the way home.

He is survived by his sisters Tami (Henry) Reatz, Kimberly (Brian) Cody; nieces and nephews Heather Chance, Jennifer Huitron, Eric Reatz, April Reatz, Heidi Chance and Amber Chance, as well as numerous great nieces, great nephews and cousins.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Michael Chance, his grandparents, and many aunts and uncles.

Jerry will be cremated and buried next to his parents and brother at the Milnor Lake Cemetery in Troy. There will be a celebration of his life at a later date. 

Jerry will be missed by so many people. The only thing bigger than his smile was his heart!