Patricia "Patty" Jean Cadwell

Patricia “Patty” Jean (McDonald) Cadwell, passed away peacefully at age 71, after a long, heroic, battle with cancer. A memorial service will be Saturday, February 23, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at O’Connor Memorial Chapel. Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Patty was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 21, 1947 to Agnes (Dailey) McDonald and LeRoy C. McDonald. She was the eldest of four children. The family moved to Great Falls in 1957, where she remained until her death on Feb 8, 2019. As the eldest sibling, and always maintaining a straight “A” education, she took on the role of teacher and mentor, which she carried throughout her entire life. She also attended classes as a life coach and was always willing to share her knowledge and wisdom, not only with her siblings, children, and grandchildren, but also to those acquaintances who would actively seek her guidance for spiritual and emotional support. She was a friend of Bill W. for many years. In 1967 she married Glen S. Workman. Together they had one son, Steve, in 1969. After her various jobs and years selling real estate, they later divorced, as friends, in 1983. She was married to current husband, Fred Cadwell for 35 years. Prior to and after giving birth to her second child, Charlie, in her early 40’s, she courageously attended college in Great Falls, majoring in English and graduated with top honors (Summa Cum Laude). Her education, as well as her determination, earned her wonderful employment opportunities, She was Grant Writer for Neighbor Works of Great Falls, followed by her final fifteen dedicated years as the Neighborhood Council Coordinator for the City of Great Falls, where she reluctantly retired, at 71, due to poor health. Forever the free spirit, she had a passion for travel with friends and family at every opportunity. From a small child she loved her pets and always traveled with them by her side. She was the most energetic, shining light and enduring inspiration to all those whom she touched. She will be, forever, fondly remembered. Survivors include husband, Fred; children Steven (Karen) Workman and Charles Cadwell; step daughter’s Kelley (John) Egge and Lori Cadwell; sister Kathleen (Jim) Workman; two grandchildren; four step grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by sister, Edith (Fred) DeaMude; brother John McDonald; and both parents. We wish to thank those at Peace Hospice House in Great falls who gave her so much love and cared for her so well.