Patrick R. Montag

Patrick R. Montag, 95, of Apple Valley, MN, passed away Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in his residence at Ecumen Seasons in Apple Valley, MN.
He was born Aug. 21, 1928, in West Bend, Iowa, to Adolf “Sam” Montag and Lauretta (Brodigan) Montag. He grew up in rural Whittemore, where he graduated from Presentation Academy. After graduation, he attended Iowa State University before returning home to farm.
On May 4, 1950, he married the love of his life, Jeanne Loss, of Algona. They were married for 61 years until her death in 2011 and had four children—Mary, Mark, Michele and Colleen. They lived first in Algona, before moving to their long-time home in Bloomington, MN.
In April, 1952, Pat joined the U.S. Army and became an engineer equipment mechanic. He worked on equipment at projects in Missouri, California and Alaska, among others, before leaving the service in March, 1954, while stationed at Beale Air Force Base north of Sacramento, California. He earned the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal.
When it came to business, Pat wasn’t afraid to take risks. In business and in life, he was an incredibly patient and fair person, treated people right and always gave people the benefit of the doubt, probably allowing more leeway than most. This inspired loyalty and appreciation in those who knew him.
Pat was in the gas and petroleum business, starting his career installing gas lines for North Central Public Service Company. He made his way up the ranks, ultimately serving as vice president and general manager of gas utility operations for North Central’s parent company, Donovan Companies, Inc, in St. Paul. He later partnered in Petroleum Marketers Service where he was joined by his son, Mark, who continued to run the business after Pat’s retirement in 2005.
To shorten his commutes on the job, Pat took to the skies. He earned his pilot’s license, eventually becoming twin-engine certified. He also flew Jeanne and the children during family vacations, part of Pat’s life-long love of travel. He and Jeanne would later see the mountains of Canada and visit multiple European countries.
Family was incredibly important to Pat, and throughout his life he encouraged togetherness and close relationships between his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It took the form of large family celebrations, fishing trips to Canada with friends and grandchildren—as well as vacations he and Jeanne took with their grandchildren to New Orleans and Yellowstone National Park.
This emphasis on togetherness grew through multiple generations. This was on full display at his 95th birthday party, where his great-grandchildren from around the country had a fantastic time playing together during the celebration.
After Jeanne’s passing, Pat was blessed to find another love and in 2013 married LaVerne Hreha, of Apple Valley, MN. They celebrated several happy years together until LaVerne’s death in 2021.
He is survived by children: Mary (Jim) Friend, of Apple Valley, MN; Mark (Peg) Montag, of Vonore, TN, Michele Bell (Duane Spear), of Burt, Iowa and Colleen (Jim) Lacy, of New Orleans, LA.
Pat’s legacy also lives on in grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Molly Montag, of Algona, Iowa; Paul (Andrea) Friend, of Carver, MN and children, Hannah and Logan; Katie (Steve) Kramer, of Reasoner, Iowa and children: Grace, Jett and Quinn; Patrick (Tamara) Montag, of Colorado Springs, CO and children, Peter, Audrey and Elliana; Joe (Laura) Friend, of Savage, MN and sons, Benji and Willy; Phil (Mariannina) Montag, of Knoxville, TN and daughters: Rosie Mae and Cecelia; Jake Lacy (fiancée, Kayla Browning), of Centennial, CO and Samantha (Travis) Calhoun, of Kiowa, CO and daughter, Ellie.
He was preceded in death by Jeanne and Laverne; brothers Larry Montag, and Fred Montag; sister, Marjorie Logan; three siblings who died in infancy: Ann, Michael and Timothy and nephew, Michael Logan.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 12 Noon, Thursday, July 18, 2024 with a visitation one hour before at Church of the Risen Savior, 1501 East Co Rd 42 in Burnsville, MN. Pat will be laid to rest at the Bloomington City Cemetery, in Bloomington, MN.
In lieu of flowers, Pat’s family asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice.