Missing Hiker Found Dead in Pattee Canyon Area

UPDATE--4:45 p.m. Wednesday, April 25

Former UM Professor Michael Kreisberg, 78, was found deceased after a search that started on Tuesday evening when he did not return from a hike in Crazy Canyon.

Missoula Sheriff’s Office Captain Bill Burt said Kreisberg was spotted about a mile from Crazy Canyon by the helicopter from Two Bear Air out of Whitefish at about 4:30 p.m.

It is not known how he died.

Professor Kreisberg’s dog, Misha was found safe and is now with the family.

UPDATE--1:15 P.M. Wednesday, April 25.

The U.S. Forest Service has closed Crazy Canyon due to search and  rescue efforts underway in the area. The area will remain closed until further notice.

The Missoula County Sheriff’s Office along with Search and Rescue crews are in the Pattee Canyon Recreation area looking for a missing hiker.

78 year-old Michael Kreisberg, a retired professor at the University of Montana, is believed to be hiking in the Crazy Canyon area with his 45 pound black and white Border Collie named Misha.

Mr. Kreisberg was last seen wearing jeans, a long-sleeved blue top and may have also been carrying a small backpack.

Sheriff’s Captain Bill Burt said Mr. Kreisberg did not return from a hike on Tuesday afternoon, so his family contacted Search and Rescue. Two Bear Air from Whitefish is also assisting in the search.

Burt said Kreisberg liked to hike off trail, so he could be anywhere in the area.

Anyone who may have spotted Mr. Kreisberg is asked to contact the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office at 728-0911.