John “Jethro” Albert Pachl passed away peacefully in Residential Living at SCL Health on March 7, 2024 in Miles City, MT at the age of 44. He fought a long hard journey, but in the end his almighty savior called him home.
John is survived by his wife Valerie (Raschkow) Pachl, his daughters Wesley & Jeanette Pachl of Miles City, his parents, Albert Jr. & Doreen Pachl of Manning, ND; His sisters Jen (Alejandro) Chacano, Becky (Chris) Sayler, Laura Pachl, Susan (Justin) Semerad and brother Albert III (Jessica) Pachl, 10 Nieces, 2 Nephews, 2 Great-Nieces & 1 Great-Nephew, Father & Mother-in-Law, Bill & Roseann Raschkow, Sister-in-Law, Vanessa Raschkow, Numerous Aunts & Uncles, and a very close friend he called brother, Don Jones.
He is preceded in death by Grandparents Laudie & Martha Dvorak, Albert Sr. & Magdalene Pachl, Aunts Arlene(Dvorak) Brunmeier & Gayle (Pachl) Calishire, Uncle Richard Dvorak and John’s child Alex Pachl.
John was born on December 26th, 1979 in Dickinson, ND to Albert Jr. & Doreen Pachl He graduated from Killdeer High School, Killdeer, ND in 1998. He then signed on with the United States Marine Corps and spent the next 4 years seeing life very different from the North Dakota farm and loving every minute of it. He was even able to spend one year in Okinawa, Japan.
While enlisted he was home on leave over a Christmas holiday and was introduced to the love of his life at Army’s. They shared a couple beers while listening/dancing to Dead Walleye and Valerie left that night telling him “Here’s my number the ball is in your court” I am not sure he made it back to Camp Pendleton, CA before he contacted her. They spent the next year and half in a long distance relationship before he was discharged and moved to Bozeman, MT to be with her. They then lived together for 2 more years before Valerie finally agreed to marry him over a candy filled proposal during the Bucking Horse Sale Parade. He was always known for not doing things the traditional way.
John & Valerie spent the next 8 years enjoying life before they welcomed their first daughter Wesley Ann and just 3 short years later Jeanette Ann. The following 4 years were full of lots of crazy adventures and challenges but nothing could have prepared us for the news he would receive in April of 2019. John was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He spent the next almost 5 years fighting the battle of the tumor, never knowing exactly what it was but always optimistic and willing to try any treatment if there was a chance it would cure him. He hated the label that Mayo doctors gave him “Super Rare”, but he embraced the sickness with no fear, knowing that God would cure him one day.
He never let the diagnosis stop him and what he wanted to do. He continued to make memories with his family from camping & boating adventures, getting stranded on the sandbars of the Yellowstone River, painting rocks, tea parties, and so much more. He never passed up an opportunity to show his girls the rewards of hard work and was very excited for the future of his little farm.
John was passionate about his faith and often shared it with anyone who would lend him an ear. He loved the work he was able to do at Muggli Bros and even stated he felt a real part of the Muggli family, not just an employee. He was a generous, witty and dedicated individual who loved an opportunity to teach someone something new. He was an active and devout member of the Sacred Heart Parish and the Knights of Columbus. He was a proud member of the 4th degree council and often volunteered at various church functions, especially teaching religious education classes. He treasured his family and experiences he was exposed to at the Custer County Volunteer Fire Department, of which he was a part of until the diagnosis, and someday hoped to return to.
The rosary service is scheduled for 6pm at Sacred Heart Church on March 13th. The funeral is scheduled for March 14th 10am at Sacred Heart Church followed by interment with full military honors at the Eastern Montana Veterans Cemetery, with a reception to follow at Miles City VFW. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Valerie Pachl at 1158 US Highway 12, Miles City, MT 59301 to assist with the children’s education funds. The family would like to thank the staff of Miles City Fire Department, SCL Health Emergency Room Department, St. Vincent Life Flight Crew, Billings Clinic Hospital Emergency Room and ICU staff, Advanced Care Hospital of Billings Staff and most of all the staff of SCL Health Residential Living. Without your caring and compassion we would not have had these last 109 days with John. And last but not least we want to thank each and everyone of our Prayer Warriors who has been with us on this journey, you have provided us the strength we needed to be there for Daddy.
Service Schedule
Rosary Service
6:00 p.m.
Wednesday March 13, 2024
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
120 N. Montana
Miles City, Montana 59301
Mass of Christian Burial
10:00 a.m.
Thursday March 14, 2024
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
120 N. Montana Ave.
Miles City, Montana 59301
Rite of Committal
Thursday March 14, 2024
Eastern Montana State Veteran's Cemetery
Cemetery Road
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Rosary Service
6:00 p.m.
Wednesday March 13, 2024
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
120 N. Montana
Miles City, Montana 59301
Mass of Christian Burial
10:00 a.m.
Thursday March 14, 2024
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
120 N. Montana Ave.
Miles City, Montana 59301
Rite of Committal
Thursday March 14, 2024
Eastern Montana State Veteran's Cemetery
Cemetery Road
Miles City, Montana 59301
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Whitney Smith says
Val and girls, this breaks my heart. I will be praying for healing for you and your girls. John is now out of pain and with the greatest creator of all. Thinking of you guys.
Kim Stanton says
Dear Val and Girls,
I am deeply saddened to read of John’s passing. John was a giant among men—devoted to his family, his Catholic faith, always willing to give his time and energy to help others. His active participation in the K of C is to be commended! Your unending devotion to him throughout his health issues is inspirational, Val. We were blessed to know him. Sending all of you my condolences, love and caring thoughts. Eternal rest grant unto him oh Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
Kim Stanton and family
BERNADETTE MILLER says
Val and girls – I’ve been praying for John so much lately. He is home with our good Lord and out of pain. If there is anything I can do for you guys, please let me know. John and a friend put the steps up at my house a few years ago and it was so fun to watch him and the girls work together. Whatever he needed, tool wise, the girls knew exactly what it was and brought it to him. He will be missed by so many in our church and community. God bless you and know that you are in my prayers.
Janet B Klein says
My heart is breaking for you and your girls. I have been following your journey through the Bonco Babes. Please know you have been in my thoughts and prayers.
Don Bidwell says
Val
Arlis and i just saw that John passed away. Our prayers are with you, girls, and family. We grieve with you but also celebrate the joys he gave you and your family.
Stacie Miller and Family says
So sad to see this. John was an example of what Godly men should strive to be. He was a truly wonderful human and will be greatly missed. Prayers to the entire family in this difficult time.
Travis Kale says
John was kind enough to bring communion to me at a difficult time. He was a hard worker and a jovial fellow
Amber Malenovsky says
Val and family, im so sorry to hear of John’s passing g. You all have been so helpful to not only my family, but many others in the community. Prayers to you!
Vikki Bradley says
Val and girls, I am so sorry for the loss of John. He was such a friendly and loving husband and father. The heavens have sure gained a wonderful angel. My thought and prayers are with you and your family. RIP John
Marietta Karey says
Our deepest sympathy to all of the families. God’s gracious love has wrapped his arms around him. May his embrace bless him. Tom an Marietta Karey
Michelle Carda says
My heart just aches for all of you. I have followed your journey with John and seen your faith stay amazingly strong throughout! Heaven gained a great one! My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you and your family. Hugs!
Cindy and Dale Berg says
Val, so very sorry. He will be forever with you in your hearts. Keeping you in our Thoughts and prayers now and in the difficult days ahead.
Faye & Emanuel Stroh says
We are saddened to hear of John’s passing! Our sympathies are with you and your girls, John’s parents Doreen and Albert , and his siblings. He will be missed. Our continued prayers for you all.
Kim Smarsh says
Valerie and girls, I know your husband and daddy got the most precious miracle of all, to see the face of God and be welcomed with open arms into heaven. But that just breaks your hearts. I am so sorry you have had to go through this experience. Keep your memories close. He will always be with you. My prayers for all of you.
Debbie Phelps says
Dearest Valerie, Wesley, Jeanette and family. My heart is broken with this news. Your love, strength, and faith have been unbelievable this past year! I know John felt your love, heard your voices, and felt your touch every day. I tenderly smile when I picture you and the girls coloring and being by his side. God is compassionate and has a plan for us all, and He is certainly with you now and in the days ahead. My prayers are with you. Love you🙏
DEANNA Nelson Davenport says
Such a pleasure knowing John! Always smiling! Also remember your wedding you guys came to my salon to be ready for the big day! It was such an exciting time, it felt good to be a part of that!! I’m Praying for strength to remember the good times and feel everyone’s love wrapped around you all during these hard times!
Peggy Pyle Miller says
Val,
I’m so sorry to hear about John’s passing. Many prayers have gone up for you and your family. They will continue as you get through these next few days, weeks, months and years. You are loved.
Patty Mott says
Val, I am so sorry to hear about your husband’s passing and am so sad about all of this. I can’t imagine losing my husband like this. All my thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls.
Katie Merkel says
John was such an amazing human, great father and wonderful husband. He was the kind of person that brought a smile to your face and warmth to the room. What a blessing he was on our lives. Val, girls and family you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kane says
I served in Okinawa with John, we had the same job heavy equipment mechanic. I’m from Massachusetts and becoming friends with a county boy from South Dakota was an experience. John was funny caring and wonderful to be around. I remember riding mountain bikes with him and playing basketball, we had a lot of fun together. I’ll always remember red radio flyer wagon he used to transport his tool box around the shop, genius idea.
Tom and Kathy Strub says
Our sincerest sympathies to you Val, Wesley and Jeanette. Prayers will continue for your hearts. The memories you have are such a blessing. If you need anything you just let us know.
Dale Tribby says
Val & Family – I am saddened to hear of John’s passing. What a servant John was. All he did for the Catholic Church and others was so giving. When I was in KC’s with John, he was always one of the first to volunteer or lead a project. My heart breaks for you all, but at the same time will remember all the good he did. RIP my friend.
Julie Krutzfeldt says
My deepest sympathy in the loss of your wonderful partner, Val. Just like John, you have a servant”s heart and have done so much for so many young people. John was a hero to many! My love to you and your entire family.
Marc and Denise Hartse says
Our sincere condolences and sympathies for your loss.
Raylynn Sleight says
Brave & Courageous Val — sending all my love as you chart the waters of grief with your daughters. You are in my prayers and I hope you can feel peace in time. May John’s memory forever be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
LEONA PACHL says
VAL AND GIRLS my heart goes out for my prays are with you had so much fun to gather was agood man but i guess the lord need edhim more GOD BLESS
Audrey Haumschild says
Oh Val girls. I’m so sorry for yous. I was so hoping and praying, that one day he would just just start talking to us . But that wasn’t God’s plan . Biggest Hugs. Rip. John .
Leann Bankey says
My condolences to you and the family.
Robert Zabroski says
Valerie and you’re two beautiful Daughters, may the good Lord bless you and your girls, your husband, John, Will dearly be missed by the community, you and the girls will be continued in my prayers , My condolences to you, Val, and the girls
Amber Anderson says
In the wake of heartache and change I pray you and the girls feel supernatural peace that only the Holy Spirit can provide, the encompassing love of family and friends, and adequate strength to walk forward propelled by the support of your whole community as you navigate through the waves of loss and transition.
Trish Holmes says
Val and girls,our hearts are broken for you,but he is with the Lord now and in no pain.We will continue to pray for you all.God Bless Trish and Chet
The Niedge Family says
Val, Girls, and your extended families, We were blesssed to meet John not long after you moved back to Miles City. He helped us with a yard project and we all liked him immediately!!! It’s not often that someone “new” moves into a community, and a short time later, he is already known by most locals as a great family guy and a hard worker, but John was! He was an exceptional man! We mourn your loss, and pray for your healing hearts. May God be with you!
David Beaner says
Val, Sorry to hear about John. He is pain free and in a better place. Prayer for your family
David & Danette Olguin says
Val and girls, we are saddened to hear about John’s passing. His faithfulness to the lord and your loving devotion to him during this time was a truly inspirational. He is now with our lord and savior and out of pain. Praying for your family now and in the difficult days ahead.
Denise Harvey says
What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful man!
He will be a fierce guardian angel for those he loves! ❤️
Jackie Stroh says
Oh Valerie In so sorry to hear this! Hugs to you and your family!
Glennda Wolf says
Val and family we extend our deepest sympathy.
Bill and Glennda Wolf
Richard and LInda (Stevens) Meidinger says
Valerie I met you when you were a baby and worked with your parents but lost track of you when I left Miles City. I knew your parents well and felt so bad when I saw that you and your girls had lost your husband and dad.
Such a sad thing to see. May he rest in peace and may you girls make it through this difficult time with the prayers that are coming your way and all the awesome memories you have to share. God Bless.
Jared Bankey says
Val and girls, along with the entire family
My deepest condolences on the loss of your husband and farther. Keeping you in my warmest thoughts as you navigate this difficult time — and wishing you hope and healing when you’re ready.
Please accept my deepest condolences to you over the loss of John. I offer you my heartfelt support and friendship in this difficult time.
Cherie Dyba says
Valarie and girls, John will always be with you, he taught you strength and love. During these rough waters May God continue your strength. You all are in my prayers
Danielle and Steve Ray says
Val, Wesley and Jeanette, our hearts break for your family and we will continue to pray for all of you. What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful man! We have fond memories of seeing John and your daughters warmly greet us as we walked into church and holding the door for everyone. Our family appreciates all the wonderful work he did through Knights of Columbus and he will be missed by so many in the church and community. John was such a kind and giving man and is watching over all of you.
Mike & Judy Toennis says
Ou thoughts and prayer are with your families.
Chris Schlepp says
So sorry to hear of John’s passing, prayers coming for you and your family
Kevin Donnelly says
Sorry to hear of your great loss. Hey, God, bring comfort to your family in him.
God be with all of you.
Jessica Dukart Klym says
Sending thoughts and prayers to all of John’s family and friends. I had the privilege of being John’s neighbor, classmate and friend growing up and we shared many school bus rides together. He was a great guy, always willing to lend a hand and always made time to say hello! Sending prayers for peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Ellen Hart says
A few years ago I called John to see if he could rally some Knights of Columbus men to help move a parishioner who had lots of physical challenges out of her home. And of course they showed up the next Saturday with three pickup trucks and got the job done in no time. He had such a giving heart and truly cared about others.
Scott & Heather Nelson says
Val and girls, so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He is now pain free and a forever guardian angel for all of you. Cherish your memories.
Pamela Blackburn says
So sorry about John. I found a scripture I like to share at JW.org, Acts 24:15, “there is going to be a resurrection,” I wish your family the very best for the future.
Aspen Dyba says
I’m so sorry for you loss Val and the girls this is heartbreaking. He’s watching over you and the beautiful girls keeping you’re family in mind❤️
Mary Luhr says
Valarie, so sorry to hear of your husbands passing. You both were so brave and dedicated to your faith and life. Inspiration to all. May the Lord hold you in his ever loving arms.