Casey Marie Retz was only 64 when she passed. She was suddenly taken from us at 8:16 a.m. on August 31, 2021 in Helena, MT. The unanticipated loss was the result of Covid-19 related respiratory failure. Yet, Casey was surrounded by her loved ones and her favorite songs when she passed.
Casey was born on February 18, 1957 to Willard Westfall (d. 2009) and Virginia (Krettinger) Westfall in Hillsboro, Oregon. She was the eldest of 6 children. The family moved to Helena, MT where Casey was the first graduating class at Capital High School.
Casey grew into the woman we all love during the different chapters in her life. Each one shared love, children to cherish, music, and travel. Her ambition to advance her nursing skills, in conjunction with her loving bedside manner; instilled inspiration, respect, and tireless work-ethic in those around her.
She married Vern Tilton (d. 2020) carpenter and woodworker, in 1977. Casey earned her nursing license (LPN) at the Helena College of Technology, worked as a Nurse’s Aide, and raised 3 beautiful children, Marissa, Dustin, and Sarah.
In 1989 she wed Daryl Sonnenberg (d.1997) in Reno, NV. Casey gained a fourth child through the marriage, Kyle Williams, whom she loved dearly. While residing in Kalispell, MT, she worked as LPN at Kalispell Regional Hospital and obtained her Registered Nursing License (RN). Casey learned the fiddle, competed in fiddle competitions, and enjoyed jam sessions.
In 2000 she married Erle Dean Retz. Dean was her life partner and best friend. Their appreciation for music and devotion to their children solidified their relationship. Dean and Casey cherished their dogs, enjoyed cooking together, watching their favorite TV shows, and gaming. Casey loved to help raise Dean’s son Brian Retz, who appreciated her kindness and compassion. Between traveling and exploring local cultures with her husband; she became certified in advanced nursing techniques making her invaluable in hospital critical care. Casey was a musical enthusiast, a passion her and Dean shared.
Casey is survived by her husband Dean Retz, daughters Marissa (Will) Reichle and Sarah (Raymond) Leonhardt, son Dustin (Frida) Tilton, and stepsons Brian Retz and Kyle Williams. As well as her mother Virginia Westfall, siblings Bill (Aracelli), Terri, Laura, Leslie (Lloyd) Phillips, Jenny Westfall, seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; as well as her beloved pets Pepper and Paco.
There will be a memorial service held at 11:00 am Friday September 10, 2021 at Retz Funeral Home, 315 E. 6th Ave Helena, MT 59601.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday September 10, 2021
Retz Funeral Home
315 E. 6th Avenue
Helena, MT 59601
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday September 10, 2021
Retz Funeral Home
315 E. 6th Avenue
Helena, MT 59601
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John W Kimble says
dean
so very sorry for your loss
John Strizich says
I always considered Casey a dear friend in Middle School and High School. She always had a quick smile, never passed judgment on people and was a friend to all. I feel lucky to have met you as we grew up together. I miss you terribly.
Kerry Huber says
Some of my most cherished memories of Casey came from a broken relationship between my parents. When my parents would fight my sister Nikki and I would call Casey. She would come get us and we would spend time with her and Daryl and my cousins.
I will always cherish those memories of her. I love and miss you dearly Auntie.
R.I.P.
Stacey Kimble says
I am so very sorry for your loss. Casey was a friend in school. She was very much loved and admired.
Ronda Sewee-Davis says
Sweet casey. I remember you from bishop gilmore. Always kind and unassuming. Bless you.