Caroline Jean Hattersley passed away on May 10, 2016. Caroline was born August 1, 1957, in Santa Monica, California to Andy and Winnie Brtis. She attended Miraleste High School in Palos Verdes, California, where she excelled on the swim team and competed in state finals. Caroline graduated from California State University Long Beach with a Bachelor of Science degree in Botany.
Caroline married Tom Hattersley in 1978, and Tom and Caroline relocated to the Helena area shortly after he completed law school. Their son Brian was born in 1987 and daughter Becky in 1990.
Caroline greatly enjoyed a country lifestyle with her family in the mountains outside of Helena, complete with her horses, Brown Swiss milk cows, sheep, her well-loved dogs, and organic vegetable gardening. She put her botany background to good use with an abundance of flowers and trees on the grounds. Caroline was a fabulous cook, treating her family and friends to much appreciated meals and special baking efforts. She loved playing her violin throughout her life.
She particularly enjoyed her time as a swim team mom, traveling with Becky throughout Montana and regionally.
Caroline also enjoyed her long term association with the Helena Kennel Club, volunteering for events, working with her dogs and traveling with Becky to dog shows.
She loved the outdoors, riding her horse, cross-country skiing, and gentle kayaking with Tom, Brian and Becky and other family and friends, and annual trips to Holland Lake Lodge. Thank you Christian for the special memories from Holland Lake.
Caroline had a long association with Our Redeemers Lutheran Church, and greatly enjoyed teaching Sunday school.
More than anything else, Caroline loved to give enthusiastically to her family, friends, and community organizations, volunteering regularly and generously wherever she could help. Caroline brightened the lives of everyone she met, with boundless energy and enthusiasm, and love for all. We are heartbroken from our sudden and unexpected loss of this beautiful, generous, wonderful wife and mother. We miss her dearly.
Caroline is survived by her husband Tom, son Brian, and daughter Becky, her father Andrew Brtis of Eugene, Oregon, her mother Winifred Weshler of Palos Verdes, and sister Susan (John) Reuben of Rolling Hills Estates, California.
A service celebrating Caroline’s life will be held at Our Redeemers Lutheran Church, 3580 North Benton Avenue, on Monday, May 16, at 3:00 P.M., with a reception to follow. Please visit below to offer a condolence or to share memories of Caroline.
Audrey Blomquist says
Tom: my thoughts and prayers are with u and your family on the sudden loss of Caroline. She was a remarkable and loving woman.
Cheryl Emmons says
Tom: So sorry to hear of Caroline’s passing. She was a kind, loving, giving person and a grand lady. My condolences to to and your family.
Cheryl Emmons
Ray LaFromboise says
Your family and loved ones are in our prayers.so sorry.
Bob Marks says
Tom–
Our condolences to your family for your tragic loss of Caroline; a truly class lady. We pray that God may help you find comfort and peace.
Your friends
Bob and Barbara Marks
Deb Klein says
Tom, Brian, Becky and family- Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will always remember Caroline as the beautiful and gracious woman she was.
Deb and Dave Klein
Susan Benedict says
Tom and family, you have our deepest sympathy. Caroline was a lovely woman who will be sorely missed by all.
Scott and Susan Mainwaring
Sharon Grace says
Dear Tom, Brian and Becky, So sorry to hear of Caroline’s accident. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sharon Grace
Robin Richardson and Bruce Watt says
Tom, Brian, and Becky, we are so very sorry for the loss of Caroline. She was a wonderful lady and neighbor, so caring of people and critters alike. I love this picture of her – it really captures her spirit.
Bridger vet hospital says
Dear Tom, Brian, Becky and all of the four legged family, The entire Bridger Vet Family is thinking of you with lots of prayers and love. Caroline was one of the most caring and loving woman that we have had the privilege to know. One of our favorite memories is Caroline and her milk cows, how she enjoyed them. We will miss her never ending smile and laugh. God Bless
Dave Gallik says
Tom: So sorry to hear this sad news. Thoughts and prayers are with you
Thea Sperline says
There are no words adequate to express how sorry I am for you and your family. Caroline’s accident and passing has been a shock for all who knew here. Caroline was an inspiration, her smile was infectious, she was always ready to help with any task that needed to be done, her love and compassion for her dogs was ever present. She had a way of reading her dogs and teaching them all the obedience they needed. She SO Very much enjoyed bringing them to the kennel club training sessions. Her kind encouraging words often gave me that extra boost of energy when I most needed it. I will miss her greatly and I pray that you all will find peace and serenity soon.
Tommie Dahl says
Tom: I’m so sorry to hear about this news. I was shocked when I got the email from Thea stating this tragic accident had taken place. it’s hard to believe just three or four weeks ago Desiree and I were there sheering those three sheep for you and chatting with her without a care in the world.
Some of my fondest memories are talking to her at kennel club meetings and events, and she’ll be terribly missed by all she knew. She always had a smile on her face and was always there when anyone needed her, and that was a quality that’s hard to find now a days.
Desiree Moffett says
Tom and family: I’m really sorry to hear of Caroline’s passing. I am really grateful to have crossed paths with her. I am also grateful to have called her my friend. I’ll always remember her smile, kind words, and encouragement. And I’ll always cherish the memories of talking with her about her cows and dogs. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Teresa Wiggins says
Tommy, Brian, and Becky,
I am so sorry to have lost our sweet Caroline. My life was better because of her. She was always there for me when I needed her most. I grew up with her and I have so many memories that are dear to me. We would sit on the stairs with cups of hot tea and talk at night before bed. Those were some of the best conversations. Riding horses, kayaking, or just cooking together. Anything we did was so much fun. She is not a sister in law to me, she is a sister. Somehow we will all remember to live with joy in our hearts the way she did. It isn’t going to be easy but I want to do it for her. I love you all so much, Toots
Jeanette Prevel says
Tom, Brian & Becky,
“Nothing you love is lost. Not really. Things, people–they always go away sooner or later. You can’t hold them anymore than you can hold moonlight. But if they’ve touched you, if they’re inside you, then they’re still yours. The only things you ever really have are the ones you hold inside your heart.”
– Bruce Coville
Peter and Michelle Van Nice says
So sorry for your loss. Keeping all of you in our prayers.
Randy Cox says
Tom and family
Such a tragic event – my heart aches for all of you. Hold tight to fond memories and love shared.
Allyn Ann Cummins says
Guess we just never know–this is so sad. I will miss her (&Oscar) at rally practice. She was a super person, always smiling.
Dorothy and Mike McCarter says
Tom, we were shocked and saddened to learn of Caroline’s death. Her time came way too soon, and she will be missed by many. Please take comfort in knowing that so many friends and family share your sadness and keep you and your kids in our hearts, Our very deepest sympathies.
Tim & Elaine Myles says
Tom, Brian, & Becky-We are so sorry for the loss of your beautiful wife and mother. I (Elaine) would see her walking her dog on the walking mall periodically. I joked with her that her dog was big enough to walk her, although I could see the love and respect between the two of them. She just laughed and smiled. What a great smile–such a kind and respectful person. We hope you find comfort in the arms of our Lord. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
K.V. & Barb Knebel says
We were fortunate to know Caroline and have her as a close friend for these many years that now seem short somehow. She was always a positive force and had a smile that lit up our lives. Our many memories of horseback rides, some at midnight, and other special gatherings will always be with us. Also, Thank You for bringing me and Barb together!
Love you Caroline!
Mary & Curt Weiler says
Tom and family,
Curt and I are so sorry for your loss of your sweet Caroline. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kenneth Stringer says
Tom & Brian,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Grace Berger says
Tom, Brian and Becky. We are so sadden by the loss of wonderful Caroline. She was so alive and loving to all of us. Our memories are numerous and beautiful. Know she loved you all most of all. You are in our prayers.
Jeff and Nancy Roe says
Tom, Brian and Becky,
Words seem so inadequate. Our deepest sorrow over the tragic loss of your classiest, kindest, most loving wife and mother. She was the glue that held your family together, the mother that loved so unconditionally, the beautiful woman with a quick smile and gentle humor always present. We’ll all miss her forever. Our heartfelt condolences are with you now.
Maggie Ryan says
Tom and Family,
Was shocked and saddened to hear about the tragic loss of your wife. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Dan, Terry and Maggie from O’Keefe Drilling
Gino Dunfee says
Tom and Family: So sorry for your loss. May your memories keep Caroline close to your heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you during thos most difficult time.
The Kisers says
Tom, Brian, Becky, and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. She had a beautiful smile and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Charles Udell says
Tom, we were very saddened by the news. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Caroline was such a warm, kind, and welcoming person. We will all miss her.
Charles Udell and Judy Landecker
Deb, Brion, Tanner and Skyler Mitchell says
Tom, Becky and Brian,
We are so sorry and saddened to hear the news of Caroline. She was an amazingly soft-spoken, gentle soul whom I admired greatly. She was always quick with a smile and words of encouragement. A person is measured by how many lives they have touched…..Caroline measures very highly and will be greatly missed. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Christian & Nancy Wohlfeil says
Dear Tom, Becky & Brian,
Our hearts have broken with yours as we try to comprehend this sudden loss. We love Caroline so much and grieve with you. Her kindness and compassion for those around her (both animals and humans alike) was astounding and admirable. We remember the sparkle in her eye, her beautiful smile and her words of wisdom. We think of how much she loved the three of you! We pray for you to feel strength and warmth in this darkest hour. We support you.
Much love,
Nancy & Christian Wohlfeil
Janice Doggett says
Tom and family, I am so sorry for your loss, Caroline was a bright spot in this world.
Linda Meuret says
My Dear Tom and Brian and Becky; I’ve known Caroline for a long time…. when she walked into my private teaching studio while I was teaching at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in the 1990’s, and said she wanted to take violin lessons. She had been playing her violin through high school and wanted to pick it up again. She LOVED her violin. She’s been taking lessons ever since. One of the favorite things she like to do was to warm up, as she fondly called herself the “warm-up gal”, and then play duets. She would say to me that “anything that she could do WITH me was better than anything she could do without me”. She loved it when I would play with her, especially on my old violin. Her violin and my violin sounded so wonderful together. Often the adult student who followed her lesson would come in early into her lesson, and we all would play duets. Celtic music and familiar classical melodies were beloved things to play. She would come in with her usual sunny attitude and list all the things she had to do before she left her home far away in the mountains, with the dogs loaded up and waiting in the suburban. She played in my string ensembles and in my summer activities with great enthusiasm until she really didn’t have time for that activity, but she still kept taking lessons.
Caroline loved to go the Helena Symphony and had season tickets. If she couldn’t go, she would give the tickets away so that others could go and enjoy the musical evening. The next Lesson day, she would give me her comments about the performance, what she liked and what things she saw. She had a unique and sensory ability to find things that not everyone would notice.
I have horses, and there has always been a standing invitation for me to join her to ride at her ranch up in the mountains, which I did when time allowed. We rode when the snow was knee deep for the horses, and she happily described what she seeing in living color, as an artist would color their palatte. It was a glorious day, and we continued until tree fall on the trail kept us from continuing, not the depth of the snow. Another day in the summer, WE rode and explored to the bear meadow, and bushwached to find a shortcut. She fondly said she had a horse that was a 6 hour horse, which is often how long she loved to ride. We rode in the heat and summer, with expected times to come this spring for me to join her on riding together.
This winter she told me she was going to go cross country skiing up at McDonald Pass. I had never had the chance to go skiing up at the pass, so I asked her if I could tag along. I rented skies, and we had a wonderful time on the trails. I even went and bought myself back country skiis so that we could do that again.
Caroline would often tell me the adventurous things her children were up. Becky had her life filled with swimming and taking percussion lessons in Bozeman. Of how Becky had gone to Mexico and her education there. She was proud of Brain and his managing the ranch down in Boulder. Her children were bright and did well in school, and she loved to tell me how they were dong. How they would get up early for a day of watching the sun come up after cross country skiing… or hunting…. or another fun adventure. She loved her children and husband dearly and would go out of her way to support them, to help them or to drive them according to her rule: “Tom can only drive for as many hours as he has had sleep.” (or something like that….)
On the day that the branch hit her, she was scheduled to have a violin lesson, as usual she was usually late, so I assumed she had to dig herself out of her driveway from the snow or herd back the geriatric “girls” (older cows) back into their pasture or something. But she never did arrive….. now I know why. I know that her eyes are smiling, and her face is a light with the joy of her new adventure in the heavens with her Savior and family and friends who passed before her. God bless the Hattersley family, that the love and comfort of your Savior will lift and sustain you at this time. You are loved .
Susie and Bon Tatilian says
Dear Tommy, Brian, and Becky,
We are so sorry you lost your beloved wife and mother. Caroline had a special place in our family and we all miss her. Bob liked her very much when he met her, though he did not get the opportunity to spend much time with her. I have known Caroline for a long time. I especially liked her sense of humor and her beautiful smile. I admired her love of animals and your Montana family home. I fondly remember many long phone calls with her as she described all the activities and accomplishments of the three of you. She was a great wife and mother. Caroline lived a full and happy life doing what she wanted to do. May those many happy memories comfort you in your grief. We are so sad for you. We are only a phone call away if you need us.
Love, Susie and Bob
Julie Steab says
I was so looking forward to sharing flower seeds with Caroline this year. May God comfort each of you. If there is anything I can do to help please let me know.
Vicki and Paul Kent says
A few years ago, Caroline’s wonderful horse, Sandy, finally brought us together. She flagged us down on the road by her gate one day. She wanted me to ride with her as she was still getting used to her new horse. I was glad to have someone to ride with also. So, I brought my great, quiet Quarter horse , Lakota and we went with her and Sandy. Down Buffalo Creek, up the High Road, over to Bear pasture. When the hours and terrian we wanted to ride were too much for my old guy, she let me ride Sandy and she rode one of the Blues. We rode for 5 and 6 hours at a time. Up and over the Ridge to Park Lake Rd, up to Blackhall Meadows, exploring the places she hadn’t been in years, li k e the valley of aspens where ” the wild things live”. Sure enough, we saw a big bull moose.
Just a couple weeks ago, we took a ride on a beautiful day to th e top of the ridge with me, as usual, on Sandy and her on Billy. The view was outstanding. Pasque flowers, Shooting Stars blooming, aspen leaves in their spring green color just starting to show, and the snow still on the Elkhorns.We had even flushed our several elk on the way. Caroline and I discussed the million dollar view and how lucky we were. Our 3 hour ride was followed by juice , cookies and conversation. Afterwards, she rode her golf cart up the hill to our cabin that seems to be perpetually under construction since she hadn’t seen it in a long while. Three hours later, we suddenly realized it was getting dark and that our husbands might be just a little worried. We had been so caught up in talking about the cabin, we hadn’t even noticed the daylight receding.
Then, there was cross-country skiing on Mac Pass. Breaking trail in December through the pasture next door in 2 1/2 ft of powder to the lever gate, crawling over a down tree on our skis. Then,another time, skiing knee deep powder over the ridge, down the valley to the main road to circle back home, all in about 10 degrees.She was an animal on those skis, with me just trying to keep up and stay upright!
Tuesday’s were for working out ,then meeting at Starbucks for coffee. Last week we even had the husbands come. We shut the place down with them kicking us out. Next day she came to my cabin again for “just a few minutes” which turned into yet another 2 hours of excited, encouraging ideas on how I could hurry up to live there so we could ride more, visit over coffee, and she, Tom, Paul and I would be able to sit and play cards together.
Also, there were the many dinners at the Fusion Grill before walking to the civic center and the symphony to use her season tickets.
Caroline got me out doing all the things I haven’t done in years because of not having anyone to go with. We discovered we had a lot of things in common. We made plans. I had to find an “8 hour ” horse because we had lots of territory to explore this summer.She gave me renewed excitement about finishing our cabin and becoming close neighbors.
I have a hole in my life now but cannot imagine the one in Tom, Becky and Brian’s lives and hearts. It was a privilege, not to mention great fun, to know her ! I will miss our rides, concerts, coffees together and great conversations. Even Paul was looking forward to all four of us getting together more.
Thanks Caroline ,for being a great friend and neighbor. I will never forget our wonderful times together.
Paul and I extend our heartfelt sympathy to the whole family. I know how much you all meant to her and how much she enjoyed taking care of you all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.Let us know of anything else we can do to help?
Vicki and Paul Kent
Steve Schaeffer says
Tom and Family,
I am very sorry for your loss.
Gary and Penny Fassett says
Tom and Family
We are deeply saddened. Our hearts go out to you.
God Bless You and God Bless Caroline.
Jim Hunt says
Tom,
It’s hard to know what to say when something like this happens. I hope you can be somewhat comforted knowing that my heart, as well as the hearts of many others, go out to you and your family.
Diane Dean says
Tom, Ryan & Becky,
Our hearts & prayers go out to you. Carolyn is a wonderful person & friend. She will be sorely missed by all. Remember to give the dogs a good belly rub.
Danny, Dave, Debby, and Brian Kelly says
Brian, Tom, and Becky,
Here it is, Tuesday, May 17th. We just found out about Caroline’s death tonight and we feel so bad we were not there for you. Our hearts ache for you all. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Nancy and Mark Schneider says
To Tom and family,
We are so shocked and terribly saddened by this tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you
And the family. We have such beautiful memories of Caroline from her days with us in Long Beach.
Please know we are sending you all our love and deepest condolences.
Tim and Melissa Kosena says
To Tom and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I was so shocked to hear of Caroline’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of need. May god bless you and your family.
Colleen Connelly Stanovich says
Tom and Family:
I was saddened by the news of your wife’s passing. Tom Schwartz had shared the information with me a few weeks ago. In today’s Palos Verdes Peninsula News, there is a wonderful obituary on her life. She was (and is) an extraordinary woman. I am so sorry for your loss.