Frederick Joseph Panion

Frederick Joseph Panion embraced life with an unyielding spirit that touched everyone who knew him. On July 12, 2024, surrounded by family, he gently reached the end of his journey after bravely battling cancer. Fred was not just a man of many talents but a beacon of strength and wisdom to his family and community.

Born June 4, 1951, in Butte, Montana to Darlene and Frederick Panion. He was the oldest of five siblings, growing up on the "East Side." As natural leader and teacher, Fred dedicated his life to his passions and loved ones. He attended Butte High School and Kinman Business University; held positions at Berkley Pit, Montana Indian Alliance, NCAT, and spent cherished years with Montana Talc Company (now Magris Talc), leaving an indelible mark at every step. Fred's influence extended beyond his professional life; he served as a pastor with Butte Gospel Assembly for over a decade, where his compassionate leadership left a lasting impact on those he served. His helping heart didn't stop there-Fred was also a respected member of the Montana Mining Association Board and worked as an EMT in Three Forks, MT, where he lived and thrived for several years. In the mix of school and living, Fred's life took a turn toward love and destiny when he met Carol at the Christian Coffee House. Not long after, at the fishing access on the Jefferson River in Cardwell, Montana, a moment of pure serendipity occurred-Fred tackled Carol to the ground, instantly becoming the love of her life. From that day on, he wrapped his heart around her and her children, and on May 8, 1976, they wed. Together, this dynamic duo raised their family to value hard work, strength, and above all, love.

Fred's passions were as diverse as they were deep-rooted. When he was young, he played many instruments, tap danced, had a love for baseball, and a knack for tinkering. As he grew, he found solace in the outdoors through hunting, fishing, panning for gold, rock, crystal, and arrowhead hunting, while embracing the thrill of snowmobiling and four-wheeling across Montana's rugged terrain; and he thoroughly enjoyed teaching everyone about the special kielbasa Panion recipe. A skilled pool player and an unrivaled guitar virtuoso, he effortlessly lit up any room with his music, making him the heart of every gathering. His music was not just entertainment but a language of love that resonated deeply with everyone fortunate enough to hear it. Fred had a profound love for Ennis, Montana, where he and his family spent nearly 30 years enjoying their cabin in the Gravelly Range (Shining Mountains).

Beyond his professional achievements and hobbies, Fred's greatest legacy lies in his devotion to his family. He poured boundless love and guidance into building their cherished cabin and taught invaluable life lessons to each family member, especially his grandchildren. His love for storytelling and his tradition of giving every family member a special "bohunk" name further endeared him to those closest to him.

Fred's journey now continues alongside his beloved bride, Carol, who preceded him in passing. Together, they shine down upon us, their legacy of love and joy forever etched in our hearts.

Fred will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit lives on in the memories he created and the lessons he imparted. May we find solace in knowing that he rests peacefully, his legacy enduring through the lives he touched and the love he shared.

Proceeded in death by the love his of life, Carol Panion; mother and father, Fred Panion and Darlene (Herkus) Panion- Berube; brother-in law, Roy Anderson; brother-in-law Bill Pesanti, sister-in-law, Sharon Stiffarm; and nephew, David Stepper.

He is survived by his four children; Jamie (Tony) Leyba, Tracy Wolsifer, Francis Panion, Tammy Panion. Grandchildren: Brittany (Riley) Masters, A.J (Katie) Leyba, Sam (Syndey) Leyba, Samantha (Will) Smigel, Jessica Wolsifer, Alex & C.J (Faith) Wolsifer, Frankie (Dallas) Nelson, Fred (Maleese) Panion. Great Grandchildren: Xaiden, Leyton, Charlie; Lucas, Amelia; Jaxon, Jayden; and Rowan. Siblings: Darlene Hart; Danene (Marty) Petritz; Donelle (Dan) Kuchtyn; John Panion; In-laws: David (Barb) Stepper; Joe (Marsha) Anderson; Julie Pesanti, Gene Anderson, Robin (Greg) Martin and; step-father Dan Berube; many wonderful nieces and nephews, and special friend, Nort Petrovich and family.

Memorial services will be conducted Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Wayrynen-Richards Funeral Home in Butte. A reception will follow at the McQueen Club in Butte.