East Helena Obituary: Patricia E. Verbanac
Author: Family of Patricia E. Verbanac
Patricia E. Verbanac
Family of Patricia E. Verbanac
Patricia Eileen (Gailushas) Verbanac, 85, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, October 3, 2025, surrounded by the love and memories she created over a lifetime.
Born in Plainfield, New Jersey, to Albert and Mary (Bubenas) Gailushas, Patty’s early years were filled with gramma, aunts, uncles, and cousins until the family made the big move west to Helena, Montana, in 1955. Not long after, the growing family opened the U & I Café in East Helena—a friendly local spot where Patty worked and, fatefully, met the love of her life, John J. Verbanac. Not long after graduating from Helena High School, she and John married in 1960, had two sons and settled into the East Helena home that John built. It became their sanctuary for the next 65 years—a place filled with activity, good food, and making family memories.
Patty’s working life reflected her warmth and dedication, from her days at Jorgenson’s to her many years (30+) as the friendly, smiling face who greeted customers at The Montana Power Company. She had a special way of making people feel cared for, whether they were family, friends, or just someone stopping by to pay a bill. And, if you saw her out and about anytime/anywhere, she prided herself on always being “dolled up & dressed up”.
A devoted wife, mother, and friend, Patty poured her heart into her family and her “beautiful house,” making it a home. Her greatest joy came from nurturing her loved ones—and her flower gardens. Her yard was filled with color and life, but it was her rose bushes that stole the show, admired by neighbors and visitors alike.
Patty was preceded in death by her husband, John (August 3), and her sister Katherine Chovanak. She is survived by her sons, John Verbanac and Joseph (Christine) Verbanac; sisters, Rosmarie Pouliot and Theresa (Melissa) Gailushas; brother Bert Gailushas; as well as grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will forever carry her love with them. She will be missed by all!
A celebration of Patty’s life will be held on Friday, October 10, at 2:00 p.m. at Anderson Stevenson Wilke & Retz Funeral Home, with a reception to follow.
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