Obituary - Gordon Treftz

CHINOOK - Gordon Treftz, 80, passed away Monday, May 22, 2017, at his home in Chinook, Montana.

He leaves his lifetime love, high school sweetheart, and wife of 59 years, Patricia "Patty" Treftz.

He is also survived by his daughter, Pamela (Anthony) Kelley of Salt Lake City, Utah; his son, Steven (Sharon) Treftz of Ocklawaha, Florida; two granddaughters, Andrea (Ryan) Winterswyk and Krista Kelley of Boise, Idaho; his sisters Martha McCloy and Helen Beres of Glendive, Montana, and Clara (Eddy) Baker of Billings, Montana; and his sisters-in-law Jeanne Sullivan of Bremerton, Washington, and Sandra Berry of North Pole, Alaska; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and a host of long-time friends.

Gordon is preceded in death by his parents, Christian and Rosina Treftz; sisters Emily Schumacher and Joan Baker; and his brothers, Gust, Hank, Sam and Elmer Treftz.

Gordon was born in Circle, Montana, May 26, 1936, and the Treftz family lived 30 miles away on their farm in Richey. He was a star athlete on the Richey High School basketball team, graduating with his sweetheart Patty in the class of 1955. After six years of dating, Gordon asked Patty to marry him. The wedding date was set for May of 1958, but was moved to March 1958, as Gordon was drafted into the U.S. Army with deployment on April 1.

In 1960, Gordon began his 35-year career working for the state of Montana as a surveyor/engineer for the highway department. His work brought Patty and Gordon to a few places across Montana, until they finally settled in Chinook where they made their home for the next 56 years. Gordon loved hunting, fishing, camping with friends, spending time with his grandchildren Andrea and Krista, and of course ,visiting with his coffee buddies!

Long known for his honesty, loyalty, respect of others, and love of his family, Gordon will be missed by all who knew him. He was devoted to a life of service to his church, his family and his town. Gordon believed in hard work, integrity, and to live by the 10 Commandments. Though he has passed on, his values and ideals live on with his children and community.

A memorial service for Gordon will be held at the American Lutheran Church Saturday, May 27, 2017, at 10 a.m. Military honors will commence graveside at Kuper's Cemetery following the service. Friends and family are encouraged to gather for a reception at the church in remembrance of Gordon.