Patricia (Pat) passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family and into the presence of her heavenly Savior, Jesus Christ, on April 4, 2026, after spending several years battling chronic pain. She was 81 years old.
Pat was born June 20th, 1944, to Sam and Mary Ryan in Helena, MT. She joined her brother, David and her sister Karen was born a few years later to complete the family.
Patricia attended Cathedral High School and graduated in 1962. Immediately after graduating from Cathedral High School, Patricia worked as a nurse’s aide at St. John’s hospital where she met and befriended Paul Bessler who ultimately introduced her to Denis Bessler, the love of her life. Together they created a loving family with son, Jefferey, daughter, Kimberly and son, Kenneth.
During her younger years, Pat worked at the Montana Highway Patrol and then later as a co-manager of the Broadwater apartments. Pat was not afraid of hard work. During times of difficulty, Pat helped provide for her family by doing “odd jobs” including cement work and cleaning and painting apartments. There was no job too big or too small. Pat loved nature. Growing up in a rural home outside of Helena, Pat loved all plant life. At any given time, you could find her in the garden or the flower bed. She adored anything that grew in soil. Her favorite phrase was, “I can post plant that”. She loved to transplant plants. She had a very green thumb. In addition to plants, Pat participated in several Governor’s Cups and loved artwork. If she wasn’t coloring, she loved creating Diamond Dotz art with her sister, Karen. In addition to plants and art, Pat loved her dogs. Patricia is survived by her Yorkie, Jack for whom she adored and doated over daily.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents Sam and Mary Ryan and husband, Denis Bessler. She is survived by sons Jefferey and Kenneth Bessler, and daughter Kimberly Anderson. Brother, David Ryan and sister, Karen Barnard. Blessed with nine grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren with numerous nieces and nephews. God has given Pat a wonderful life with much joy and love from family and many wonderful friends. She will be truly missed.
A very special thank you to Ron Trimp, Kathy Gilboy, Shawn Fife. The wonderful staff at St. Pete’s and St. Pete’s Hospice of Helena.
A memorial service is TBD at the Cathedral of Saint Helena during the 3rd week in July, with an interment at Fort Harrison and a reception to follow with location TBD.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Share
Rhonda Robertson says
Dear Family and Friends of Patricia,
I was so fortunate to see Pat every Tuesday for the last three years, delivering her meals on wheels. We had some lively conversations, and oh how she loved Buster and Jack. Buster was swooped by the Angels a year or so ago but I know he was waiting for her at the Rainbow Bridge. She was the most positive person I have ever had the delight to know. While it was obvious she was in chronic pain, not once did she complain. Always a cheerful “It’s a wonderful day, so glad to be here to visit with you”. I miss her! May all the wonderful memories you hold close within your heart sustain you during this sad time but bring you joy when you least expect it in the future. God bless you. RIP dear Patricia. I have two of her diamond dotz art work, both with yorkies that I had framed. An every day reminder of her, as I have them hanging where I can enjoy them!! 🙏😇🐕
Rhonda Robertson
Bebe Wirkus says
Jeff, Kim and Kenny,
I had the privilege of taking Communion to your mom on Sundays. She always prayed for you when we came to the part where we tell the LORD our intentions and desires/needs.
May GOD bless you with many positive memories of your mom.
Bebe Wirkus