John Bodner

John E Bodner, 73, of Raynesford, a rancher, died of natural causes on Sunday May 12, 2013 at his home surrounded by family. A viewing will be held one hour prior to the vigil service which will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at St. Marks Catholic Church in Belt.A funeral liturgy will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2013 at St. Marks Catholic Church in Belt.Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.Schnider Funeral Home is handling arrangements.John was born April 4, 1940 in Great Falls, and grew up in Raynesford. He graduated from Great Falls Central High School and later earned a Bachelors Degree in business from Montana State University. He was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.Following graduation, John was employed by the Montana Power Company in Butte, where he led the first computer programming department and met the love of his life, Patricia Ramirez. In 1963, John moved back to operate the family ranch, and a year later, he and Patricia were married. John served on the school board in Raynesford and Geyser, was a member of St. Marys Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, the Raynesford Volunteer Fire Department, an inspector for the Soil Conservation Service, and a supporter of the Special Olympics.John was an only child, but he graciously welcomed countless family members. For over forty years, he mentored many young people at his ranch. He was a very kind, gentle and patient man. The only time he raised his voice was when he was working cows.John and Patricia enjoyed traveling throughout the U.S. and abroad, with the highlight being their recent trip to Rome. He was a huge supporter of his grandchildren and the biggest fan of their activities. It was important for him to be there to encourage and cheer them on. He never missed an event, no matter where it was.He was a true patriarch of his family, his extended family and also those he mentored. John is survived by his wife of fifty years, Patricia Bodner of Raynesford; daughter, Patricia (John) Marilley-Bodner of Vancouver, Canada; sons, John (Mikell) Bodner of Stevensville and Jay (Donna) Bodner of Helena; daughter, Jennifer Bodner of Great Falls; and grandchildren, Grace Marilley-Bodner, Nathaniel Marilley-Bodner, Benjamin Marilley-Bodner, Paige Bodner, John Jess Bodner, Eli Bodner, Anthony Bodner and Janae Bodner.In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the Great Falls Hornets Special Olympics, 1410 Ave B NW, Great Falls, MT 59404.