George Michael Herak

George Michael Herak, 66, was born in Missoula on June 14, 1947, to Nick and Viola (Sullivan) Herak of Charlo. He died peacefully in his sleep on March 8, 2014, in Butte attended by loving family.

George was diagnosed when young as severely mentally disabled. He lived most of his life between the Montana State Hospital in Warm Springs and the Montana Developmental Center in Boulder. In 2007, George moved to AWARE’s Sampson House, a group home in Butte, where he lived until his death.

George enjoyed his room and his life at Sampson House, especially the good food, frequent outings, and affectionate, respectful care. He especially loved his personal caretaker, Corina Beckman. Rocky Mountain Hospice staff also brought quiet joy to George’s life.

George’s twin sister, Julie Bryher Herak, became his guardian in 1979. Julie, a lawyer mediator in Seattle, moved back to Montana to live near him in 2000. They enjoyed many playful and happy hours together each week for many years. At one point sisters Julie and Mary, with AWARE staff assistance, nursed George from near-death back to health in Julie’s home in Basin, Mont.

Many people commented that being near George was spiritually moving. He modeled patience, dignity, endurance, strength, and resilience. He expected to be treated with respect, and, although nonverbal, he communicated that expectation clearly.

George liked neatness, looking good, and being outdoors. He enjoyed music, especially country music. He hummed quietly along when his sisters sang to him.

George was preceded in death by his parents and many extended family members. He is survived by all eight of his siblings: Nick Herak (St. Ignatius), Mary Herak Sand (Killdeer, N.D.), Julie Bryher Herak (Basin, Mont.), Martin Herak (Charlo), Theresa Herak Doyle (Polson, Mont.), Agnes Herak Meyer (Las Vegas, Nev.), John Herak (Dixon), and Tom Herak (Charlo). George is also survived by his Uncle Don Herak (Spokane, Wash.), his Aunt Emmabell Carter Herak (Carson City, Nev.), and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial will take place in Butte from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, at the Treasure State Room of the Finlen Hotel, 100 East Broadway. George’s ashes will be buried next to his parents in July at a gathering of family and friends at the St. Ignatius Catholic cemetery.  The family asks that any donations be sent to AWARE or Rocky Mountain Hospice in Butte. Axelson Alternative Cremation is privileged to serve The Herak Family.