Montana Lawyer October/November 2025

IN MEMORIAM

Mark Duane Jette , 51, of Polson, Montana, passed away peacefully at his childhood home on Finley Point after a courageous three year battle with cancer. Mark was born on September 2, 1974, in Helena, Montana, to Garold and Janis Jette. When he was just four months old, the family moved to Polson, where he grew up surrounded by the beauty of Flathead Lake, a place

Mark D. Jette

that remained close to his heart throughout his life. Mark lived fully and adventurously. He was active, ambi tious, and full of life—always ready for the next challenge or laugh. From an early age, he could be found with a ball in hand or on the ski slopes, developing a lifelong love for skiing that began at age three. He was known for his quick wit, warm heart, and the way he made everyone feel at ease in his presence. A graduate of the University of Montana, Mark earned degrees in both finance and law after attending Bentley University. His career was as dynamic as his spirit—begin ning in Washington, D.C., where he served with Senators Max Baucus and Jon Tester, and later returning home to Montana to continue his work as an attorney. Most recently, he practiced law at Silverman Law Office in Helena, where his intelligence, humor, and integrity were deeply valued. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mark will be remembered most for his kindness, humor, and unwavering love for his friends and family. His courage, curiosity, and zest for life inspired everyone who knew him. Mark was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Janis Jette. He is survived by his father, Garold Jette, and steppar ents Marilyn Jette (Garold) and Cloyd Summers (Janis); his sister, Angela Jette Swanson; and his cherished nephew and niece, Luke and Kaia Jette Swanson.

Joseph Charles Passamani , born July 20, 1984, in Prescott, Arizona, passed away on October 25, 2025, at the age of 41. He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline; sons, Henry and Johnny; father, John; mother, Mary; and brothers, Dan and Steven. A gifted athlete and musician, Joe excelled in basketball and music. He enjoyed snowboarding and water

Joseph C. Passamani

sports. His education took him around the country. He gradu ated from Berklee College of Music in Boston with degrees in music and business. He graduated from Arizona State University in Law and then graduated from New York University with a master’s in tax law. Joe was a successful entrepreneur, running both a thriving title insurance agency and a law firm in Helena, Montana. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and a pillar of his community—known for his warmth, generosity, and easy-going spirit. Joe’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Memorial submissions The Montana Lawyer will publish memorials of State Bar of Montana members at no charge. Please email submissions to montanalawyer@montanabar.org using the subject line “Memorial.” Memorial submissions are subject to editing.

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