Paul Anthony Fritz Lear

Paul Anthony "Fritz" Lear, 59, of Gardiner, Montana passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2014 at his mothers home in Gardiner with his loved ones at his side. A Memorial gathering and viewing will be held Friday, October 17, 4-6 P.M. at St. Williams Catholic Church in Gardiner. Memorials are preferred to: Livingston HealthCare Hospice. Paul was born on May 8, 1955 in Crestline, Ohio. He was the son of Paul and Jacqueline (Bender) Lear. He received his education attending St. Josephs parochial school and was a graduate of the Crestline High School Class of 1973. Following his graduation Paul worked for a short time before he entered active military service in the United States Army on April 12, 1977 and served his country while being stationed in Germany. He received an Honorable Discharge on April 10, 1981. Upon his return from Germany Paul took employment with Yellowstone National Park working as a laborer and then a truck driver. Paul was blessed with a daughter, Angie. He later attended Northern Montana College in Havre and received an associate degree in Water Quality Technology in 1989. He held a Wyoming Class 4 certification for water and waste water treatment. He worked for the cities of Hamilton and Forsyth, MT, and Teton Village Water/Sewer District and Rock River, WY. In 2007, Paul was instrumental in Hamilton's national 1st place recognition for medium secondary national operations and maintenance excellence. Pauls illness made him unable to work, forcing retirement in 2012. Paul enjoyed Montana life. He fished, golfed, loved rafting, skiing and the Big Sky Country. He was also a great cook always whipping up a delicious Mexican dish. He was known for his salsa and guacamole which he gave as presents. He was a kind and funny man who loved to make people smile. Around Gardiner he will be remembered as the local pool pro. In 1997 and again in 1998 he qualified and competed in the National Pool Tournament in Las Vegas. Our peace is with him. Paul is survived by his: Daughter, Angie Burdsall and her husband Aaron of Helena and her son Talon McEwen, her step-children, Caleb, Caelen and Jasmyn Burdsall. Mother, Jackie Thompson and her husband, Jim of Gardiner. Sister, Jackie Jerla and her husband Ralph of Pray. Brother, Scott Lear and his wife, Wendy of Virginia. Nieces and nephews, Carly Mohr and her husband, Tom, Zach Jerla and his wife, Pauwla, Jeremy Jerla and Hailey, Jake and Tyler Lear. Many other relatives and friends. Paul is preceded in death by his Father Paul Victor and Brother Ronald. Arrangements are under the care of Franzen-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory.