Longtime Chester Resident and Community Leader Pat Seidlitz Dies at 91

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Patricia "Pat" Seidlitz, a longtime resident of Chester, Montana, passed away on February 5, 2026, at the age of 91. Seidlitz was a devoted member of the St. Mary's Catholic Church, serving in various leadership roles over the course of three decades. She was also active in local Democratic politics, running for and winning three elections as the Clerk of Court for Liberty County. In retirement, Seidlitz continued to be involved in the community, co-managing a scholarship fund and serving on the board of directors for a local retirement home.

Why it matters

Seidlitz's life exemplifies the important role that community leaders can play in small towns like Chester. Her decades of service to the Catholic church, local government, and various charitable organizations made a lasting impact on the town and its residents. Her passing marks the end of an era for Chester, as it loses one of its most dedicated and influential citizens.

The details

Throughout her life, Seidlitz was deeply involved in the St. Mary's Catholic Church, serving as an officer of the Altar Society, president of the District Catholic Women, and vice president of the Diocese Women. She was also a lector, Eucharistic minister, and member of the church council. In addition to her religious activities, Seidlitz ran for and won three elections as the Clerk of Court for Liberty County, serving a total of 20 years in various county positions. After retiring, she co-managed a scholarship fund that awarded over $1 million to local students and served on the board of directors for the Sweetgrass Lodge, a retirement community.

• Seidlitz passed away on February 5, 2026.
• A vigil will be held for Seidlitz on February 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Chester.
• Seidlitz's funeral service will be held on February 21, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Chester, followed by burial at the Chester cemetery.