Darlene Hand Obituary
Darlene Ann Hand, 82, of Helena/Anaconda passed away Saturday, June 18, 2011 at her Anaconda residence. Darlene’s four children were at her bedside when she died following a courageous battle with cancer.
Darlene was born to Ted and Ann Riemann in Hardin, Montana on November 16, 1928. The second oldest of 6 children (Arden, Darlene, Teddy, Dorman, Donna, and Curt), Darlene’s early years were spent on a farm where she shared chores with siblings and developed the sense of responsibility and strong work ethic that so characterized her adult life.
At age 13 she moved with her family to Columbus, MT and graduated from Columbus High School in 1947. Later that year she moved to Seattle, WA to attend beauty school and learn the trade she had dreamed about since childhood. On graduating from beauty school in 1948, Darlene moved to Helena, MT and began a career as a beauty operator that would span more than 60 years.
In 1950 she married James A. Hand who was recalled to active duty in the Navy a week later. On his return from service, Darlene and Jim purchased the house on Helena’s upper west side that became (with several expansions) the family home in which they would raise their four children (Robyn, Patty, Jim, and David).
One of the expansions included build-out of Darlene’s Beauty Shop, where many a distinguished lady returned week after week for more than 60 years because they left her shop even prettier than when they walked in. In the end, Darlene’s customers were not so much clientele as they were dear friends and extended family.
Darlene worked out of her home-based beauty shop in Helena until the age of 81 when, at the urging of her children, she stopped working and finally began to enjoy some well-deserved rest. She moved to Anaconda in September 2010 to discover the joys of retired life. As was her way, she quickly met and befriended many fine people in the communities of Anaconda, Deer Lodge, and Philipsburg.
It would be easy to remember Darlene most for her kind and caring nature, as those traits were always evident to her friends, family, and her beloved animals. For those close to her, especially her children, she will also be remembered for the tenacity and toughness that belied her gentle demeanor. In the face of a grave illness it was not her way to ask “Why me?” but rather to ask “Why not me?” as she confronted the challenge head on with grace, courage, and a sense of humor. She is an inspiration to her children, their families, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Darlene was preceded in death by her husband James, her parents Ted and Ann Riemann, her brothers Teddy, Dorman, and Curt, her sister Donna, and granddaughter Christine.
She is survived by her four children Robyn Lynn (John Toles) of Anaconda, Patricia Ann of Helena, James Patrick (Valerie) of Round Rock, Texas, and David Matthew (Becky) of Great Falls/Helena. Darlene also leaves behind 11 Grandchildren and 11 Great Grandchildren.
Darlene’s family would like to thank all the special people in Anaconda and Helena who stepped forward to comfort her and the entire family during this difficult time. Their kindness and compassion will be remembered always. The family would also like to give special thanks to the skilled professionals at Anaconda Pintler Hospice whose compassionate care and quality service were above and beyond expectations and instrumental in helping the family cope.
A wake and memorial service will be held at the St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Anaconda on Friday, June 24, 2011. Visitation will begin at 6:00 p.m. with prayers beginning at 7:00 p.m. A requiem mass and memorial service will also be held at St. Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral in Helena on Saturday, June 25. The service will begin at 1:00 p.m. with inurnment to follow at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery, Fort Harrison.
Memorials in Darlene’s name are suggested to Anaconda Pintler Hospice, 108 Oak Street, Anaconda, MT 59711. Arrangements are under the care of Retz Funeral Home in Helena in cooperation with Riddle Funeral Homes in Anaconda. To offer a condolence to the family or share a memory of Darlene, please visit: www.retzfuneralhome.com.
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Liz Tobosa says
My mother, Vivian Paladin, had a standing appointment with Darlene on Thursdays at 11:30. I can still hear them laughing while Darlene “fixed” mom’s hair. They had such a good time. Mom always looked forward to that time with Darlene.
Darlene once knitted a cream-colored afghan in the fisherman’s pattern and gave it to my mom for her birthday. I still have it! It still looks great and we have it on a sofa in our living room!
It is so heartwarming to read the tributes and the obituary. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers as you move through your grief.
Liz Tobosa
Janet Eck Bloom says
Just a note to let you all know what a special woman your mom was. She was a soul-mate to my mom, and I believe she and my mom spend every Friday together for 60 years! They left this earth one month apart, and I know they will find each other again in Heaven, ready to pick up where they left off! I do not think there was a woman who worked harder or had a better outlook on life- she will be missed by everyone! May wonderful memories carry you throughout your days!
Janet Andrew says
Robyn, Patty, Jim and David,
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts.
love, Janet
Eric & Nickie Eck says
Oh what a reunion took place in Heaven when Darlene joined Elaine! Those two were the best of friends for so many years. When Darlene got her latest diagnosis it really hit Elaine hard. To know that those two have been reunited is a comfort. I’m sure Darlene looked at Elaine and said – let’s do something about that color! Our sympathy to all of you-you are in our prayers. The Eck Family
Nancy Murray Scharf says
So sorry to hear of your mothers passing. It is very hard to lose them.
The times you had together are the greatest. From all the Murray’s from
up the street at 442 Harrison. Take care of each other. God bless you all.
Dawn DeWolf says
Dear Robyn and family,
My deepest sympathies for your loss. Your mother was amazing. The obituary was wonderful. It really expressed who she was and how much she meant to others.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers
Dawn