Pete Allen Demarais “The Star,” 74, of Great Falls, passed away on October 9, 2014 at his residence from natural causes. Visitation will be held on Monday, October 13, from 6-8 pm in the Rose Room Chapel at Croxford Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held the following day, Tuesday, October 14, 11:00 AM at the same location. The burial will take place the following day on Wednesday, October 15, at the Malta Cemetery at 3:00 PM.

Pete was born on March 9, 1940 in Harlem, MT to parents Joseph Demarais and Philomene McGillis. Much of his younger years were spent in Malta, Mt and it is in this place that he met his 1st wife Irene. From this blessed union they had 2 wonderful kids and remained together until Irene’s passing. In 1995, Pete married his 2nd wife Lois Ferrell. Over the course of his life, Pete was a laborer, ranch hand, and artist. Having idolized famous artist Charles Russel, Pete had wide spread success in his paintings of rural Montana and had artwork all throughout Montana and Canada as well. His art brought him lots of recognition amongst friends and family.

When Pete wasn’t lost in creating another piece of art, he thoroughly enjoyed music and socializing with anyone and everyone, bringing joy and a light heartedness to all whom he encountered. Devoted husband, loving father, grandfather and dear friend. He will be missed very much by all who knew him.

Those who survived in death are his wife Lois; daughters, Bonnie Tunnaclif, Debby LaFountain Demarais (Blue Benton), Linda (Jim) Holmes, Katrina Jagielski, Dale Fish (Rick), Jennifer Snider (Joel); sons, Allen Ragland, Andrew Swagger, Herb Fish (Laurel); sister, Doris Henry of Malta; 18 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.

Pete was preceded in death by both of his parents along with his 5 brothers, 2 sisters, and his first wife Irene.

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