Carol Jean Holdaway Dagenais
Early in the morning of December 19, 2022, Carol Jean Dagenais died at her home from complications of dementia. Born In Wallace, Idaho, on March 14, 1943, she was the younger daughter of Ben and Opal (Heisie) Holdaway. She joined her older sister, Lestie, completing their family. As a young girl, she enjoyed accompanying her father on fishing trips. She loved camping, fishing, boating, water-skiing, and being out-of-doors. She had two special childhood friends: Carol Ann Edwards and Bonnie Jean Cooper, with whom she shared the same birthday, as well as many more friends from the graduating class of 1961, Wallace High School.
After graduation, Carol moved to Helena, Montana, where she worked at the Union Bank and Trust Company as a proof operator. From 1964 to 1967, Carol worked for Dr. Robert Kuntz as his receptionist. Next, she spent a year working in Accounts Receivable for Hennessy’s Department Store. She then began working for First Security Bank as a teller and bookkeeper, from 1970 to 1976. Later, she joined her husband, Terry Dagenais, as a partner in Terry’s Convenient Foods and Sports Deli. After Terry and Carol Jean retired from their business, she went to work for Morrison-Maierle Engineering Service as a collection manager, for 14 years. She enjoyed working with the public and giving personalized customer service.
Carol Jean met Terry Dagenais at Canyon Ferry Lake, on a family outing. They were introduced to one another by their fathers, who were friends. After a short courtship, they were married in 1962. Carol and Terry continued to enjoy camping, fishing, and boating with their family.
Carol Jean and Terry had two sons, Steven Paul and Michael Terry Dagenais. A dedicated and loving mother, she followed her boys as they pursued their interests in stock car racing and football. She was called “Mom” by most of the boys’ friends.
Devoted to her grandchildren, Carol was an enthusiastic supporter of all their activities. She was extremely proud of their achievements in swimming, wrestling, gymnastics and DECA.
Her yard was filled with beautiful flowers. She loved working with ceramics, crocheting and baking goodies for her grandchildren and friends. She always made special treats for birthdays.
Carol Jean was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents; her aunt and uncle, Jeanie and John Raymond; her older sister, Lestie Gardner; her nephew, Paul Gardner; her cousin, Corky Hull; and by her former husband, Terry Dagenais.
She is survived by her sons, Steven and Michael, of Helena; Steven’s children, Nichole, Seth and Sean; Michael’s children, Taylor and Michaela; her niece, Susie McAlinden, and her children; her nephew, Bruce Gardner, and his children; and Mary Ellen Hull and her children.
Carol Jean wanted to be remembered as a loving mother and grandmother. As she requested, there will be no memorial services held. A private family internment will take place in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, in the spring.
Memorials are suggested to Intermountain, 500 South Lamborn, Helena, Mt, 59601, God’s Love, 533 N. Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT, 59601, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Mary Kay Bennett says
I always liked Carol.
We go back to the days of First National Bank in the 60’s.
I worked as a teller and she worked for Dr. Bob Kuntz in one of the upstairs offices.
Those were the days. Rest in peace Carol..you deserve it.
Sorry to her sons.
Susan (bass) proul says
Steve and Mike…so very sorry for your loss. I have many memories of her at the store. Keep your memories close in your hearts and she’ll always be with you. May she rest in peace.
Tim Easton says
Steve and Mike
Was always a pleasure to visit with your Mom and Dad weekly when i would see them at the store. Always considered them good friends. They both will be missed. Godspeed Carol and Terry.
Lori Herndon says
I lost track of Carol a few years back she came to see me after my husband passed away I knew something was wrong I tried calling her at home but never got any response and my whole life had taken a different turn so I was unable to keep in contact tonight I decided to look it up and found out she had passed away last year I’m so sorry she was a good friend she gave me gifts for my birthday and for Christmas I still have. I miss her and always will she was truly a very kind individual.