Montana Centenarians Honored During Governor’s Conference
Montana centenarians were honored in Kalispell at the Hilton Garden Inn during a special luncheon last week.
Attendees included representatives from the Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging and the Department of Public Health and Human Services, who joined together with stakeholders and community members to celebrate 15 centenarians in attendance from Billings, Butte, Columbia Falls, Great Falls, Kalispell, Polson, Red Lodge and Whitefish.
The luncheon was part of the 57th annual Governor’s Conference on Aging.
DPHHS recently asked these honorees to share their secrets to longevity, most memorable life moments, favorite quotes, and personal reflections. Over 40 centenarians who submitted their information this year will receive a recognition proclamation from Governor Greg Gianforte.
Those who responded to DPHHS include those who are or will turn age 100 by the end of 2026. The list includes: (1) 104-year-old (1) 103-year-old (4) 102-year-olds (12) 101-year-olds (23) 100-year-olds Here are some of the centenarians’ responses: Blanche J. Garrett, age 100, Kalispell. At 15, Blanche worked as a shipyard welder in Portland, OR., joining the women who came to be known as Rosie the Riveters. She later became Kalispell’s first female real estate agent. Her advice: “Just keep moving.” She also turned age 100 on the day of the centenarian luncheon.
John McCampbell, age 100, Red Lodge. John rode elephants in Nepal at 80 and hiked to Machu Picchu at 82. He served on a U.S. Navy air crew and, while at the Naval Academy, set an obstacle-course record that reportedly stood for decades. He credits good genetics, healthy living, and accomplishing something every day for his longevity.
William “Jim” Sivelle, age 100, Polson. During World War II, Jim flew in the second seat of a Navy Kingfisher aboard the USS Detroit. In 1945, he witnessed Japan’s surrender at Tokyo Bay. His favorite saying: “Press on.”
Shirley McConnell, age 101, Polson. Shirley acted in commercials and short films and earned membership in the Screen Actors Guild. In 2025, she performed as a seated comedian for about 200 guests and earned a standing ovation.
James Patterson, M.D., age 103, Butte. James received a Bronze Star for his U.S. Army service after World War II and later answered a newspaper ad for an internship at The Murray Clinic in Butte, where he settled in 1957. He calls his first kiss with his wife, Meryl, the most amazing moment of his life.
In addition to the luncheon, the conference provides valuable information about services and supports that affect the well-being of older Montanans, their loved ones, and their caregivers.
This year’s conference offers an excellent opportunity to explore aspects of aging in Montana. Participants will delve into the latest research, innovative programs, and practical strategies that help shape the experiences of older adults in Montana.
The agenda features sessions on topics important to older Montanans and those who support them, including respite care, nutrition, palliative care, elder law, dementia, long-term services, and exploitation prevention.
