John Patrick "Pat" Giblin

Pat was born on January 3, 1939, in Billings, Montana, to Charles and Adeline Giblin.

He was raised in Laurel, Montana, alongside his younger brother, Jim Giblin. Pat often shared fond stories from his youth, especially the many hours he spent helping his father at the family restaurants —experiences that shaped his strong work ethic and love of people.

Pat graduated from Laurel High School in 1957 and went on to attend the College of Saint Thomas (now the University of St. Thomas) in St. Paul, Minnesota. After earning his undergraduate degree, he returned to Montana to attend the University of Montana School of Law, graduating in 1964. He cherished his years in law school, where he built lifelong friendships and many happy memories. Pat later continued his education at Boston University, where he studied tax law.

Pat enjoyed a distinguished career in law and investment banking and was a member of both the Montana and Colorado State Bars. Prior to retiring in 1996, he served as General Counsel for KOA. Despite his many professional accomplishments, Pat often said his favorite job was working as an insurance adjuster in Yellowstone National Park during his college and law school years. He spent his summers driving through the park, living at Lake Lodge Hotel, and developing a lifelong love for Yellowstone that never faded.

Pat was committed to Scouting and youth leadership. He was active in Scouting for many years, attended the International Scout Jamboree in Australia, and led a group of scouts on a memorable expedition through the Boundary Waters of Minnesota.

In 1998, Pat and his beloved wife, Sylvia, retired to Litchfield Park, Arizona. There, Pat embraced retirement with enthusiasm—golfing often, hosting Montana and neighborhood gatherings, and forming many cherished friendships. He traveled extensively, visiting every continent except Antarctica, volunteered at the Super Bowl, served as a marshal at PGA tournaments, and enjoyed spring training baseball games cheering on the Mariners. A devoted sports fan, Pat proudly supported the University of Montana Grizzlies—Go Griz!

He was always generous with his time and wisdom, frequently helping friends and family with legal and estate questions.

Summers were often spent back in Billings, where Pat and Sylvia treasured time with their children and grandchildren.

Pat is survived by his loving wife, Sylvia Giblin, and his children: Michael Giblin (Margaret), and Christine Branch (Curt), Michele Fox Hall (Alan Hall), JR Fox (Michele). He was a proud grandfather to Levi (Kaylee) Fox, Jase Hall, Bailey Furr (Brandon), Jack Hall, and Jake Hall, and a delighted great-grandfather to Hudson Furr.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00am Friday, January 23 at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 2055 Woody Drive, Billings. Interment at Laurel Cemetery.