Bessie S. Kaltenbach was called Tuesday morning by her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (in whom she had placed her trust on Nov 18, 1955) to go to her Heavenly home. Bessie was born at home in E. Helena Sept 2, 1928, the daughter of Bessie and Arthur C. Mergenthaler. She worked at Woolworth’s Drug Store, where she met her beloved husband Gene who worked at Canyon Ferry Dam.
On July 5, 1953 she married Eugene Kaltenbach in Helena, Montana. They made their home in Great Falls, Montana, working together to raise their children, Darla and Mark. She was busy serving her family in so many ways—ways that helped her children grow to become the man and woman God planned. Gene was blessed in being married for 58 years to this Godly woman whose price was above rubies. Bessie loved attending church (Victory Baptist), as well as reading her Bible and spending time with her Lord in prayer.
In addition to her family and church, among her favorite things were sewing, gardening, horseshoes, and a variety of sports. A member of the Helena Day’s women’s softball team, she helped her team on to victory to take the 1952 and 1953 championships.
This faithful servant of God is survived by husband Eugene Kaltenbach, daughter Darla Kaltenbach, son Mark Kaltenbach, daughter-in-law Paula, grandchildren Joshua, Danielle, and Joryn, sisters Hazel Kreiger, and Bertha Pietz, and brother Lloyd Mergenthaler and many beloved nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Bessie’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 21, 2011 at Retz Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison. To offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Bessie, please visit www.retzfuneralhome.com.
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Karol Kaltenbach West says
My sympathies Uncle Gene, Darla, Mark and Paula. I’ have many fond memories of Bess and will cherish them. May the Choirs of Angels come to greet her, May they speed her to Paradise, May the Lord enfold her in his mercy, May she find eternal life. Blessings and prayers are with you during this time.
Ken & Betty Kaltenbach says
Gene, Darla, Mark and Paula and kids, Thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Cherish the memories you have of Bess as the beautiful woman she was. Bess and your family will be in our prayers.
Love to all, Ken and Betty
Tracie Prescott says
Darla;
Sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
with Sympathy
Tracie Prescott
Marc & Cheryl Elledge says
Gene, Mark & Darla,
Our prayers are with you during this time of grieving. We were so blessed to know your family when you attended Fairview Baptist in Great Falls, and we remember your mom as a godly Christian lady. I(Cheryl) admired her so much, and her testimony made a great impact on my life. How wonderful to know we’ll meet again in Heaven!
Jo Copeland says
Paula and family,
I’m sorry for your loss… My prayer is that you will find peace in knowing that your loved one is resting in the arms of Jesus.
Sincerely,
Jo Copeland
Ray and Donagene LaFromboise says
Praying for God’s peace and love to surround you and your family at this time.
Cindy Redifer Munger says
My thoughts are with you Darla.
Love to you, Cindy
Cindy Redifer Munger says
Incorrect email on previous signing.