Dorothy “Dottie” Nansel, 94, passed away on May 13, 2019 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, MT. Dottie was born July 16th, 1924 in Vernon Parish, LA. to Clara and S.Y. Bays. She graduated in 1941 from Homer High School in Homer, LA. After completing Perry Business School, she was hired as secretary to the president of Louisiana Paper Co. in Shreveport, LA. It was in Shreveport that she met the love of her life-Don Nansel- while temporarily stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base.
After marriage, Don brought Dottie back to his hometown of Hysham, MT where they owned and operated Treasure Lumber and Hardware for 35 years. In 1979 they retired, sold the store, and moved to Billings, MT. After Don’s death, Dottie eventually moved to Helena in order to be closer to family.
Dottie was a member of the Hysham Community Church, a Past Worthy Matron of the “Order of Eastern Star”, Elks Lodge member, and a Life Master Member of the American Contract Bridge League.
She is survived by her son, Dale Nansel, of San Francisco, CA, daughter Jane (Alan) of Helena, MT, grandson Andrew and great-grandson Hayden Erickson of Helena, MT, grandson Steven (Cassie) Erickson of Idaho Falls, ID, and numerous nieces and nephews. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents Sel and Clara Bays, sisters Lucille and Rose, and brothers Raymond, Earl, and John Edwin.
Cremation has taken place. Dottie’s ashes will be interred at the Rancher’s cemetery Friday, June 28th at 2:00, and a “Happy Hour” celebration of her life will be held Saturday, June 29th in Billings at the Elks Lodge from 4:00-6:00.
We know that mom is once again enjoying a night of “tripping the light fantastic” with her husband and playing competitive games of bridge.
Please visit www.retzfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Dottie.
Tara says
I am so sorry for your family’s loss. We are all affected by death, no matter what our age is. The Bible tells us that Jehovah God sees our pain and suffering. And soon he will put an end to death for good. He even promises a resurrection of our loved ones. (John 5:28,29). I hope this brings you some comfort during this time of grief.
Barb & Dana Schulz says
We are sorry for your loss. We enjoyed swapping stories with Dottie and Don when they would come back to Hysham to visit ‘their’ store. Barb & Dana @ Hysham Hardware.