Connie Jean McEachern July 22, 1955-March 3 2016
Families, like buildings all have a unique structure. They are anchored to the earth with foundations of steel and concrete. These materials are the strongest we have to offer because we want the building to stand tall and survive the elements throughout the ages. Thursday, March 3rd 2016 the McEachern family lost part of their foundation.
Connie Jean McEachern passed away at St. Peter’s Hospital and is now at peace and pain free. Her lengthy battle with cancer finally overcame her at the age of 60. Cancer may have taken her from us but her lifetime work as Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Daughter, and Friend has built a foundation that will withstand the test of time within the McEachern/Sutton families. To know Connie is to know truth, honor, hard work, and respect. Connie’s organization skills were second to none, balancing family, the home, and a full time job. It is of no doubt that she was able to handle this tremendous load due to the determination, (and stubbornness) that has passed down from her surviving mother, Ruth Sutton. Together, hand in hand, with her Husband Bob McEachern they formed a family filled with Love, Compassion, Loyalty, and Strength. The unique qualities Connie and Bob instilled in their children lives with vigor inside her six Grandchildren. Connie (known as Mema) and Bob (known as Papa) enjoyed nothing more than spending time with their grandkids, friends, and family. One of Connie’s favorite things to do was to be with her Husband and best friend of 41 years, out in the mountains surrounding their home in Clancy. Her adventurous soul took her to many places, among her favorites were trips to Colorado, picnics “up in the hills,” time spent at park lake and even the occasional rafting trips. She was known to drive snowmobiles, 4 wheelers, razors, or go cross country skiing and snowshoeing. She was always willing to try anything, without complaining. Connie wasn’t going to be left behind. And on top of just “being there” Mema would have food, drinks, blankets, and bug spray for everyone when they needed something. This knack for preparedness and organization was a true attribute.
Connie graduated from Jefferson high school in 1973 and began her work career at The First National Bank in Helena. After having her son Kurt, she opened a home daycare in Clancy so she could be with her children while helping Bob provide for the family. Connie kept the daycare until her daughter Karmen entered elementary school, after which she took her career as the Unit Coordinator for the Education Department at Carroll College, a position she kept for 30 years. She loved her daily interactions with the college students and her camaraderie with her co-workers.
Connie is survived by her Husband Bob McEachern (Clancy), Mother Ruth Sutton (Dillon), Mother-in-Law Wilma McEachern (Clancy), Her two brothers Dan (Linda) Sutton (Helena), Russ (Rayann) Sutton (Dillon), Brother-in-Law John McEachern (Jefferson City), Sister-in-Law Debbie (Tim) Mahlum (Clancy), Sister-in-Law Connie Griffin (Helena), Son Kurt (Tiana) McEachern (Jefferson City), Daughter Karmen McEachern (Pagosa Springs, CO), Grandchildren Luke, Joey, Kolter, Rain, Bradley, Logan, and many nieces and nephews. Connie has lived a life most of us only dream of, the outpouring of love and respect given by friends and family is testament to the life she has lived. The foundation has been shook, but the building remains and Connie’s hard work has withstood. Mema (Connie) will continue to keep watch to ensure the building stands stronger than ever. Her gentle soul and heart of gold will shine through all of us.
The family suggests memorials in Connie’s name to be sent to Carroll College Education Department 1601 N Benton Ave. Helena, MT 59601.
A Celebration of Connie’s Life is scheduled for Wednesday March 9th at 11:00 am at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. 3750 N. Montana Ave. Helena, MT.
The family would like to thank the Cancer Treatment Center at St. Peter’s Hospital, the nurses on the Oncology Floor, and her amazing friends for the wonderful care Connie received.
To offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Connie please visit below.
Jim Benish says
Connie was such a wonderful person to work with at Carroll College, and she will be missed by students, parents and faculty alike. She was a friend to all!
Jack and Carrie Darrah says
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We will miss Connie’s smile.
Ashley Perez says
Connie had a kind and beautiful soul. She will be truly missed. Connie was always cheerful and willing to help without a complaint.
Tom Reilly says
Bob and Family,
I am so sorry to know of your loss. From the days of your house next to Fritz/Emma Haab she’s always been the same consistent, friendly person every time I saw her. Take care.
Tom
Lynette Zuroff says
Thank you for sharing your wonderful wife, mother, daughter, sister, and grandmother with me for 30 years. As she and I worked side-by-side, I came to know how very much she loved you and wanted only the best for you.
Connie’s kind, considerate, warm, humble, and caring nature graced Carroll College and served as a model of goodness for all. Never, in 30 years, did I hear Connie say anything negative about a person. Instead, when I pointed out something negative, Connie quickly pointed to the good quality that I hadn’t seen. As I told Connie often, the only negative quality in her was her dislike of food types touching each other on her plate. In every other aspect, Connie was an exemplary employee, a productive team member, a compassionate human being, an uplifting addition to any setting, and a genuine friend.
Connie’s legacy lives on in the good works of the students she nurtured on their road to becoming teachers. They know how to find the goodness in others and to make the world a better place, because they have a perfect model to emulate.
Mary Runkel says
Connie had the most beautiful laughing happy eyes that enveloped you in conversation and whatever path your life was going. She was a happy high school classmate and my deepest condolences go to Bobby and family. She was a treasure to all who knew her.
Lauren (Larson) Murphy says
I will always remember Connie for her wonderful, warmhearted spirit. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Karla Layson (Hellegaard) says
As a Carroll student, I always loved and appreciated every kind smile and piece of candy offered at Connie’s desk. As a freshman, you may have stopped in for a piece of candy, but as time goes by…its Connie that you were stopping for. The Ed Dept won’t be the same without her!
Pat Holmgren says
We will certainly miss Connie and her kind heartedness, twinkling eyes and infectious smile. I have been privileged to have Connie for a friend for several years and I was always amazed that I never did hear her complain and I can only imagine the pain she must have had with her bouts with cancer. She suffered gracefully and kept plodding along to the very end. We will certainly miss her at our birthday club gatherings. We could always count on Connie to be at the gatherings and presenting the birthday celebrant a crocheted dish rag tied up with a piece of raffia. I received the last dish rag at my birthday celebration on Feb 19th. My sympathies to Connie’S family and RIP Connie and thanks for being such a wonderful friend!
Philip Keating/ Family says
Bob, Kurt, Karmen and families, I am sorry for your loss. Connie is a great person and everyone that met her was fortunate to have the chance to see her big smile, because she was always smiling. She had a heart of gold and a personality to match. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tammy Stefanik and girls says
I don’t recall ever seeing Connie without a smile. She was a caring, kind woman and it was apparent of the quality of a woman she was by just knowing her family. I’m so sorry for your loss. She was a special woman.
Sandy and Deb Green says
Sandy and I send our condolences to all of you. She was a great woman and her love of family will definitely carry on in all of you. May you be comforted in the days ahead.
Shanda Larson Tompkins says
I remember the day she married Bob so vividly. I was a child then but I still remember her beauty and her fun loving spirit. That is forever imprinted upon me. What an incredible soul. I am thankful for knowing the kind soul she always was. I am deeply sorry for the loss of the family and you are in my prayers.
Marilyn (Gruber) Maphies says
My thoughts & prayers go out to all of Connie’ family. She was a wonderful person.
Mari Williams says
Connie was a beautiful soul inside and out! Her accepted her cancer diagnosis as only Connie would – with grace, willpower and acceptance. She has created a beautiful family with Bob and the kids. She is an inspiration to many who are facing a serious health situation. I will never forget her smile, her warmth and her love for her family! I am honored to call her my friend :). Prayers and love to all the McEachren family from all of our family. May God comfort each of you during this terribly difficult time. Love – Mari and Ed Williams
Cindy Ferris Ward says
Connie , babysat my boys Beau and Ryan Ferris when we lived up Lump Gulch. The boys were in Clancy school. Bless YOU, Connie’s family. She was everything and more of the way family described her.
Lois Fitzpatrick says
Connie was a wonderful woman and friend. I always enjoyed talking with her. She was a great woman and will be greatly missed by all.
Julie Schultz says
I loved going over after school to Karmen’s house to play, and a big part of the reason was the awesomeness of Connie. Sending thoughts and hugs to the whole family.
Louisa Frank says
Oh, my dear Connie, I will miss you. I loved our chats at Carroll. May you rest in peace and may your family find comfort in the kindness you gifted everyone with who had the good fortune to come your way. Love, Louisa
Steven Elwood says
I first met Connie in Dillon where we both lived. After marrying my cousin Bob, they seemed to build a great life together. Connie always seemed to have a smile, a great sense of humor and a melodious laugh about her.
Though time and distance separated us all, I will remember her as a positive influence in the family and I mourn her loss. My best wishes to the family and friends for their comfort during this hard time.
Bob Stansberry says
Thank you, Connie for sharing a small portion of your life with me. You always provided an optimistic point of view and a listening ear to everyone who came in contact with you. You have truly been an inspiration to me and the many students you have come in contact with at Carroll College. I will miss our talks and that cute giggle of yours. Rest in peace, my friend.
Patrick Greene says
The Greene family extends our condolences to my cousin Bob, his immediate family and extended loved ones in the McEachern family. I too will always remember the graciousness and kindness Connie ‘”Bob” willingly offered. Connie made my wife and children feel welcome and at ease as they met the large McEachern family for the first time on our Aunt Pat’s & Uncle Don’s 50th wedding anniversary. There is now a brighter star in heaven that spreads its message of warmth and hope.
Patrick & Nancy Greene, Courtney & Christopher Greene – Arbuckle, California
Rev. John L. Greene – San Bruno, California
Sirena Steward says
May you rest peacefully and pain free Aunt Connie. We will miss you terribly! Thank you for being such a good, kind hearted aunt! My heart goes out to the rest of the family in this time of loss.
Sarah (Nyland) Davis says
Very sad to hear of Connie’s passing. I have many great childhood memories thanks to this very sweet and kind woman. Prayers and thoughts to all of her family.
Karen Grevas says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all. Last week for some unforseen reason Connie popped into my head. I saw her smiling as her eyes were twinkling. Unsure why but perhaps God knew the reason. May she rest in peace free of pain. Bob and Connie has instilled much strength and courage in their children and their families. Be strong and you all will be together again someday in Heaven. Paul and Karen Grevas and also Michelle Henes (Grevas)
Kally Porrini says
I can’t imagine entering Carroll’s Dept. of Education and not seeing Connie’s smile while hearing her welcoming words. Whether it was a phone call to ask a question or a visit to the office, Connie met us all with her friendly greeting and helped us in her caring, professional efficient way. She will be sorely missed!
Kathy Ericksen says
I am so sorry to hear that Connie has left us. She was a wonderful person and friend in the Education Department at Carroll College. I taught classes in the Gifted Institute for many years and always felt that she was indispensable
at Carroll College!
John L. Greene says
Dear Bob, my prayers and sympathy are with you in this tough time. Connie is such a kind and generous person. I appreciate all the hospitality she shared with me and my family whenever we came to Montana. You are both a loving and wonderful couple. I will remember Connie and you on Wednesday at St. Robert’s. Love, John and Pat Greene
Michele Christensen says
I am faraway in Thailand but my heart grieves to hear about the passing of Connie. She was so much fun to work with. We laughed together a lot and even though our time was short together she taught me so much about being positive and having a great outlook on life. I will always remember her contagious laugh. Bob, we will keep you and your sweet family in our prayers during this difficult adjustment time. thank you for letting Connie touch my life.
Brittany Davis & Family says
Sorry for your loss. Connie was great woman. Always smiling and happy! Many fond memories spent at her house growing up with Karmen. Even later on, when seeing Bob and Connie out in the woods or in the grocery store – loved seeing and conversing with her. Will miss her!
Nona Patterson says
I met Connie while working at Jorgensen’s in Helene. Dan brought her in on day for lunch and I was glad to meet he. If you need anything call anytime.
Paul & Bobbi Foran says
Bob & Family-
We are sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Connie was such a wonderful person, always smiling and happy. We will miss her.
Paul & Bobbi Foran
Mary Elwood says
Bobby and all of the McEachern Family: Connie was a True Sparkling Diamond in this rough world. From High school until the last time I saw her a few years ago Connie’s smile, sparkling eyes, and laughter were contagious. It lifted my spirit just to be around her.
I am sorry for your loss and keep you all in my thoughts and Prayers.
Connie will always watch over “her family.”
Cheryl Ott says
I met Connie thru Jane Pursley and the antique business. I loved seeing them pull up at the shop in Manhattan. She always had a smiling face and a great sense of humor. I am sure she will be missed dearly by family and friends. Prayers to all. Cheryl Ott
jeanette m fregulia says
Although I was not a faculty member in the Education Department, I often taught not far from Connie’s office and always looked forward to a quick chat with her before or after class. Her good humor when my students asked to borrow her stapler because they had forgotten this task was far beyond her job description, but that was just Connie. She brought love and joy to all knew her, and she will be greatly missed. Prayers and comfort to all of her family – jeanette m. fregulia
Brandy Keely says
Connie was such a wonderful person to be around. I can remember many occasions when I would purposely stop by the Education Department just to visit with her. Her bright and bubbly personality would always brighten the day and her wisdom was beyond her years. She will be missed greatly by all of the faculty, students, staff, and friends of Carroll College. God has received another beautiful angel. Thoughts and prayers to all of you.
Jonathan Matthews says
In my two decades as an education professor at Carroll College, Connie daily did many things, big and small, to make my work life productive and enjoyable. Though her job at Carroll would commonly be referred to as an administrative assistant’s position, she truly was what her formal title said she was, our Unit Coordinator, the person whose presence enabled us to be graceful, happy, and productive together—in a word, to be coordinated. So now, with Connie gone, we stumble forward, uncoordinated, stubbing our toes, bruising our shins, tripping and falling. It is hard to move forward without Connie, but for the good of the teacher education students that she served and loved, we will somehow learn to do so.
Though Connie is gone, we continue due to the benefits received from her support of us. In this way, Connie continues to live in us.
Anne Bauer says
Dear McEachern family,
Connie was such a bright light. I had the privilege of working with her on coordinating IEFA opportunities for the Education students and occasionally on other things. I always felt renewed after having spent time with Connie. She knew that the things she did made a difference for her students, and she cared about each and every one. She was always ‘all in’ and up for anything that was going to make a difference to even one student. She understood how important her role and her engagement were and she never wasted a chance to lift someone up. Connie set an incredible example and left an indelible memory of hope, and caring, and Non Scholae Sed Vitae in my mind.
Dayle Williams says
Connie was a wonderful person to work with at Carroll. She always made sure to make my job easier when working on the Education Departments class schedule together. She always wore a smile and it was contagious, you couldn’t help but smile back and enjoy her.
Gary and Lynda Bujok says
Bob and family, Our thoughts and hearts are with you. Connie was a wonderful, warm person and we feel privileged to have known her.
Rod Thronson says
I have already expressed my feelings about Connie to Bob. But I just wanted to add something here. Besides my mother I can think of no person who has touched me more than Connie. She calmed me down when I needed calming. She got me laughing when I was sad. Every day I think of something else she took care of or helped me with. Connie I will miss you! Your passing has saddened me deeply. I hope you are surrounded by moose things in heaven.
Lou Schield says
I was sadden to hear of Connie passing. She was a wonderful lady. You are in my thoughts and prays
Lou Schield says
I was sorry to hear of Connie passing. She was a wonderful lady. The family is in my thoughts and prays.
Karen Ann Watters says
Sorry to hear about Connie. I went to school with Connie in Dillon, Montana. We spent a lot of time together. I am sure she will be missed. I remember her smile…lovely!!
Anna Moody says
Thank you for this obituary. Sending prayers and warmth in your time of grief. Feeling grateful to have met Connie and had play time together-road trips and vacations were a blessing as a teenager and friend of Karmens. Seeing Bob and Connie last at Tammy’s wedding was a treat. Karmen, you are in my thoughts as you travel through this journey. May your memories and family bring solace for your grief.
gerold craft says
Connie always had a smile and a laugh all through high school. She never had a bad word to say about anyone. Our prayers or with you Bobby and family what wonder family.
Donna Turcott says
Many thanks to you, Connie, for being the always friendly and helpful presence in the Education Dept. office. You will be greatly missed!
Larry Drake says
Russell, Ruth and family my thoughts and prayers are with you. I realize how close your family is and Connie will be greatly missed. I did not have the privilege of being around her much but the times I remember were fun times when she would visit in Dillon. God bless you all.