Rose Helene Loy Doney, 83

Surrounded by family at her home on Whitefish Lake, our beloved Helene passed away April 15, 2022, after suffering for several years with dementia. Born in 1938, she was just three weeks shy of her 84th birthday.

Helene is survived by her true love, Roger, whom she married nearly 60 years ago on June 17, 1962; her sister, Janny Loy Holmes, of Phoenix; and children, Lauryn (Andrew) Rice of San Diego, Michael (Jennifer) Doney of Seattle, John Doney of Helena, and son-in-law Barry Smith of Portland. She was predeceased by daughter, Carolyn Doney Smith (2010).

Helene was the proud grandmother (Beloved Mame) of 10 grandchildren, Maxl, Gage and Hutton Smith (Carolyn), Conner and Angus Doney (John), Jack, Paul and Ava Doney (Michael), and Evan and Addison Rice (Lauryn).

A life well lived, Helene was the daughter of homestead farmers John and Carol Loy of Great Falls and spent summers on Flathead Lake. She was an avid University of Montana Grizzly alum, second grade teacher, skier, cook/baker, and much-adored wife, sister, mother and grandmother. Her home was always open, and she was a dear friend and second “mom” to so many.

In their retirement Helene and Roger spent their winters in Arizona where they also developed many deep and lasting friendships.

Fun memories of Helene include: Monster cookies, Norwegian pastries, pulling kids hooky-bobbing, hot chocolate on the ski hill, eggs ralph (benedict), building rock people, and matador burritos.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in memory of Helene and their daughter Carolyn to the Whitefish Community Foundation.

At Helene’s request, there will be no service. Friends are encouraged to post messages and favorite memories of Helene on her tribute page at www.austinfh.com. (Austin Funeral and Cremation Services in Whitefish).