Phil Maronick died peacefully on Saturday, May 5, 2018. Phil was a beloved father of 6, grandfather of 17 and great-grandfather of 2. He was born August 8, 1930 to Edward and Isabelle Maronick of East Helena and grew up at the Lime Quarry south of East Helena. His mother died when he was two years old. Phil was raised by his father Ed Maronick, his extended family, Nicholas and Jovana Maronick and his step mother Florence Maronick.
Phil married Betty O’Connell on June 22, 1957. As a couple, their love was a living testament of two becoming one. They worked together in raising children, building a business and creating a legacy. Betty preceded him in death 13 years ago in 2005.
In those 13 years Phil inspired strength within the family with his humor, love, integrity and perseverance. To his Grandchildren he displayed sass, love and encouragement – not to mention the famous candy drawer.
Phil attended Cathedral High in 1948 and then earned an Economics degree from the University of Notre Dame (1952). After graduation, he deployed to the Korean War. Upon returning he earned an Engineering degree from Montana State University. Phil often said “I learned how to live at Notre Dame and learned how to make a living at MSU.”
Phil was a man of few words and trusted by many. Among his colleagues, he was known as the Gentleman Contractor. He was the founder of Maronick Construction Company and later purchased Helena Sand and Gravel. Phil was a visionary with a knack for timing and for hiring good people.
Faith in God was central to his life. He was deeply committed to his Catholic beliefs and used his success to help others reach their dreams. He believed in higher education and supported Carroll College, Catholic Charities and other philanthropic organizations. Phil was humble to the end, and only took credit under extreme circumstance.
He was preceded in death by his wife Betty and his sister Kay McGonigle. He is survived by his six children, Elaine Maronick, Sue Reed (Jim), Ed Maronick (DeAnne), Mary Braunberger (Bill), Carol Zortman (Vince), Rick Maronick (Lori) and 16 grandchildren. A visitation will be held Thursday, May 10th from 3:00pm-5:00pm with a vigil service to follow at 6:30pm. Funeral mass will be held on Friday, May 11th at 12:00pm, all services will take place at St. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in East Helena Montana.
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Tammy Steckler says
Elaine, Sue, Ed, Mary, Carol, and Rick, Both of your parents were inspirations to my family. My deepest condolences. – Tammy Steckler
Anonymous says
Divine Peace Bouquet was purchased for the family of E. Phil Maronick.
Brian J. Lannan says
Elaine, Sue, Ed, Mary, Carol & Rick,
Please accept our heartfelt sympathies on the loss of your father, he was always gracious & kind.
Sincerely,
Brian J. Lannan
:heart::pray:
Kevin Horne says
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Maronick Family in this most difficult time. Mr. Maronick was a true inspiration to all of us and the construction industry. For that we are truly grateful.
Our condolences from all of us at Helena Sand and Gravel.
Helena Sand and Gravel says
Helena Sand and Gravel purchased the Country Basket Blooms for the family of E. Phil Maronick.
Bob & Judy McIntyre says
A “gentleman contractor” certainly describes Phil. Judy and I have some of the greatest and most meaningful memories of our life from the time spent with Phil and Betty – especially for me, the many hours spent with Phil in labor negotiations. He was an inspiration to us all. Sorry we aren’t able to make it to the service, but our thoughts and prayers are with your whole family.
Big Sky Cremation & Twitchell Funeral Se rvice says
A tribute video has been added.