George Patrick Bailey passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Monday, Aug. 13, 2018.   George was born in Butte, Montana on Jan. 3, 1939 to John G. and Anna E. (Ouellette) Bailey.

      George was raised in Butte and attended Webster Garfield and graduated from Butte High School in 1957.   He also attended the Montana School of Mines for two years.   George enlisted in the United States Army Reserve from 1956 to 1964.   He was proud to have been raised in Butte and treasured the memories he had of playing football, baseball, and hockey with his neighborhood friends.   George also enjoyed speed skating, hunting, and fishing with his friends and family.

      On June 20, 1959, George married the love of his life, Karen Kunz.   Together they brought four children into this world -- Lat, Gerrette, Denette, and Lance.   George was a dedicated husband and father to his wife and children.   George had a variety of carets over the years.   He began working in finance for Commercial Credit and Sebright Financial.   He then transitioned into the construction field.

      George worked construction for many years and was an all-around handy man.   He passed his construction skills down to his children and grandchildren.   George had a strong work ethic and continued to work until his health prevented him from doing so.   He was a great example to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren;   teaching them the value of hard work.   In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing with his family.

      George is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Bertie and Jack Saunders;   his sons and daughters-in-law, Lat and Nora Bailey, and Lance and Shani Bailey;   and his daughter, Gerette Bailey, all of Butte.   He is also survived by his grandchildren, Nathan (Maria), Nichole (James), Erik (Shell), Christi (Mark), Josh (Linzi), Tausha (Justin), Michael, Brooke, Bryce, and Jake, as well as 26 great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.   George loved being surrounded by his family and his house was always the place for family gatherings.

      George was preceded in death by his loving wife, Karen;   parents, John and Anna Bailey;   his daughter, Denette;   his grandson, Ricky;   and numerous cousins.

      Relatives and friends may call on Wednesday after 12 p.m. (noon) in St. Patrick’s Catholic Church for visitation.   Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Rite of Committal will immediately follow in Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery.   A reception will be held at the McQueen Athletic Club following the services at the cemetery.   Memorials may be made to the Huntsman Cancer Center, Easter Seals/Highlands Hospice, or the charity of the donor’s choice.