Andrew O'Bleness

Andrew O'Bleness

February 08, 1934 - May 03, 2023

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Obituary

Our dear father was born February 8, 1934, in Walsenburg, Colorado, and fell asleep in death on May 2, 2023. He married Mom on December 13, 1952. Together they lived in Polson, Montana, and then Hayden Lake, Idaho, before moving to Billings in 1974. They also lived in Lewistown, Montana, for several years before returning to Billings.


Dad was known by many as a carpenter--a builder of homes, banks, schools and assisted on the Metra. Most importantly, Dad built a relationship with our Creator, he built a loving marriage, and he built a happy family. As a spiritual man, he volunteered helping others learn about the bible so they, too, could build a relationship with God. He had great love for members of the congregation, helping them build their families, build their love for ministering to others, and build their faith. His empathy for others, his patience, and his humility were never-ending.


He enjoyed fishing, telling good (and often dumb) jokes, teasing his friends, road trips, listening to music, watching cooking or building shows on PBS, and having "the Boys" around. And he lived long enough to meet the fifth generation, his great-great-granddaughter Maisie.


As one of Jehovah's Witnesses, he would comfort others that Jesus likened death to “sleeping” (John 11:11; Eccl. 9:5,10) and there will be a time when “all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out”. Many have a hope of going to heaven, but Dad expressed his hope of a future on the earth (Psa. 37:10,11) when all of God's promises for everyone are fulfilled (Rev. 21:3,4).


He is survived by sons Andrew Jr. (Karen), Paul (Debra), Philip (Denise), and Matthew (Laura); daughter Sarah (Chris) Cobetto; 8 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-granddaughter. He is also survived by a brother Bruce O'Bleness of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho -- now the last of the "Great 8" O'Bleness siblings.


Dad was predeceased by our mom Rose, infant son Timothy, daughter Deborah, and grandsons Chuck Jr., Stewart, and Daniel.


Our family wishes to express our sincerest thankfulness to the Gallagher Family and their Amazing Team for their care of both Mom and Dad. They were an answer to our prayers. And thanks to Dad's roommate Darek LeMay for helping Dad in numerous ways and being Sarah's second set of eyes on Dad all the time.


A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, May 20, 2023, at 1:30 p.m., at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 201 Wicks Lane, Billings, Montana 59105. There will be light refreshments served afterward. If you wish to attend via Zoom, please contact friends or family for the link.

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Noel hoklin
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Please accept my condolences.
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The Richard Family (Louise)
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Andy came to Polson in 50’s to help a little Cong! He also took little family to Nader his wing! He encouraged the boys to come to theocratic school, but we had no money for suits, so Andy said if boys had clean jeans & shirt, he would find ties for them! He took oldest son Joe to Billings convention, told him to go to kitchen, where Joe washed dishes the entire time!! Joe went on to become elder, & still serves in Eureka,as is his son Stephen! Oldest daughter became pioneer in 1955, & continued most of her life, & husband Jerry Terter was an elder. Son Eddie became elder at 19 yrs old in Polson, serving until his death. His son now elder in Polson now, son a servant to’ Youngest daughter a pioneer now in Polson, (husband elder-Dallas Dean), her son elder in Missoula as his children serving! She also, had many privileges! All because a young man, Andy, was willing to come to Polson & gave of his time to help this young Sister Angela Richard & her 4 children!! Bless Andy & Jehovah! 1 Thess 1:2-7 (3)

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