DPHHS Honors Montana Centenarians

Montana centenarians were honored on Oct. 3 in Great Falls at the Holiday Inn Convention Center ballroom during a special luncheon, including Glasgow born Leo Pattison, 100 years old, who currently resides at the Care and Comfort Home in Havre.

"Montana centenarians are absolute treasures," Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Director Charlie Brereton said. "They have lived life to the fullest and bring so many life experiences with them. It's an honor to celebrate these amazing individuals and learn about their incredible lives."

DPHHS officials recently asked Montana centenarians about their secret to longevity, the most amazing event in their lives, favorite quotes, and various other insights. All the centenarians who responded will receive a recognition proclamation from Governor Gianforte.

Pattison's response was:

Leo Pattison was born on Jan. 12, 1923, in Glasgow. He played one season of football for the Montana Grizzlies. He took care of the team's laundry and slept in the locker room. However, he decided not to continue playing football because he declined the coach's requirement to attend school.

In his 20s, Leo survived a serious car accident that resulted in a broken back. Despite the initial prognosis that he might never walk again, he made a remarkable recovery and was able to lead a full life. During World War II, he served in the military and was stationed at Bataan in the Philippines.

Longevity runs in Leo's family with his father living to be 104.

The luncheon was part of the 54th annual Governor's Conference on Aging with the theme "Aging Unbound."

The DPHHS list of centenarians include those who are or will become 100 years old by the end of 2023. The list included one 107-year old, one 106-year old, two 105-year-olds, four 102-year olds, six 101-year-olds and 21 100-year olds.

The conference's mission is to raise the public's awareness of the state's current senior population, as well as providing lifestyle choices. The conference included numerous keynote sessions, focusing on the State Plan on Aging, the future of Senior & Long Term Care and action steps on elder abuse. Breakout sessions and panel discussions focused on caregiver/respite programs, senior center programs, senior hunger, and redefining retirement.

Additional conference information can be found at: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aging/GovernorsConferenceonAging.