February 10, 1954 – May 7, 2026
Patrick James Gustav Mace, known affectionately to all as “PAT,” passed away on May 6, 2026. Born on February 10, 1954, in Missoula, Montana, Pat was a longtime resident of Darby, Montana, where he built a beautiful life centered around hard work, family, and the great outdoors.
Pat was a deeply dedicated and hardworking man who spent over 40 years of his life as a skilled cement mason. Upon retiring at the age of 60, he happily traded the job site for the simple, peaceful pleasures of Montana life. An avid outdoorsman with a lifelong passion for hunting and fishing, his absolute favorite place besides home was “up the Creek.” In his retirement, he found endless joy screening for sapphires, meticulously working in his yard, and immersing himself in a good mystery series or audiobook while camping. He was famous for the characteristic message left on his voicemail: “Sorry I can’t make it to the phone. I’m either taking a nap or up the creek!”
More than anything, Pat was the heart and glue of his family. He was the reason so many gathered and stayed connected, and his warmth, humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Pat’s legacy of love for the mountains and his fierce devotion to his family will live on forever in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
Pat was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Natalie (1979–1996).
He is survived by his loving wife, Janet “Gigi”; his daughters, Danae and Wendy; and his son, Kirk. He is also survived by his four brothers, Steve, Mike, Mark, and “otha brotha” Steve. Pat’s legacy continues through his grandchildren, Riley, Declan, and Laycee; his great-grandchildren, Stephanie, Shelby, and Trisha; and his great-great-grandchild, Kingston.
Patrick Mace says
As the other bald Patrick in the family, he set the standard pretty high for the rest of us. He wore it well, carried himself with humor and heart, and never missed a chance to make people laugh.
We’ll miss his stories, his smile, and the way he brought people together. While it’s hard to say goodbye, I like to imagine him somewhere with calm water, a perfect fishing spot, and the biggest catch of his life.
Love you, Uncle. Tight lines and fair winds until we meet again.
Riley James Gustav Mace says
Papa Pat was the best grandfather I could’ve ever asked for. I remember some of my best memories being with him. Him being there for when I rode my bike without training wheels for the first time. The way he and my mom would give me sweet treats when I was little. The way he took me under his wing and showed me to be a good fisherman. He showed me that I can be more than I was at that time, and I aspire to be like him in the future. I love my Papa.
Mike Mace says
Brother Pat was more than just a good brother he was a great friend. All of us brothers grew up very close Camping and fishing at the place we love nestled in the mountains in Montana. I will miss everything thing we did together from fishing cutting firewood and hunting to just playing cribbage on the deck. I’m a very fortunate man to have a family that close. He will be missed and loved always.
Steve Chavez says
Pat and I adopted each other in 9th grade while attending Lewis and Clark High school in Spokane Washington and were soon pretty much inseparable. Where you saw one you usually saw the other. We were the best man for our respective marriages.
We maintained a close relationship throughout our lives and his loss will forever leave me with a hole only filled with memories of all we experienced/endured.
Love you brother