PAUL BLEY obituary

BIG SANDY - Paul Emil Bley, 57, died as a result of an automobile accident on Thursday, Sept. 15, 2005, outside of Geraldine.

A vigil service was held Sunday at 7 p.m. at St. Margaret Mary's Catholic Church in Big Sandy. A funeral Mass was scheduled for today at 11 a.m. at the Catholic Church in Big Sandy with a reception following. Family graveside services will be held Tuesday at Conrad Memorial Cemetery in Kalispell.

Paul was born to Melvin and Ruth Bley in Havre on May 5, 1948. He was raised on a family farm 8 miles west of Big Sandy. After graduating from Big Sandy High School in 1966, he attended Northern Montana College in Havre and earned a degree in agricultural studies with a business minor.

Paul was married to Valerie Morger in Jan. 1973. They had four daughters. Paul and Valerie divorced in 1996. Paul continued farming the family farm, dividing his time between Big Sandy and Kalispell. He was a loving son, brother, father and grandfather.

Paul enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and gathering with his friends. His other great loves were traveling and cooking. Most of all, nothing captured his heart more than spending time with his family and his girls, his pride and joy.

Paul was preceded in death by his father Melvin in June 1974.

Survivors include his children, Erin Bley of Fort Benton, Tessa (Tom) McGree of Kalispell, Jenna Bley of Highlands Ranch, Colo., and Emily Bley of Kalispell and the University of Montana; mother, Ruth Bley of Kalispell; sister, Donna (Gary) Richner of Big Rapids, Mich.; nephew Chad (Lori) Richner of South Bend, Ind.; niece, DeAnn Richner of Big Rapids, Mich.; and granddaughter, Molly McGree of Kalispell.

The family is asking that all donations be made to the Paul Bley Memorial, Wells Fargo Bank, No. 1 Johannes Ave., Big Sandy, MT 59520.

Benton Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.