David Muncie Taylor, 61, and Charla Rae Taylor, 64, passed away on March 18, 2018 at their home in Helena, Montana. Dave and Charla were well known and loved in the Helena community and will be greatly missed by friends and loving family members.
Dave Taylor was born in Glasgow, Montana on January 8, 1957 to Muncie and Dorothy (Fink) Taylor. He was raised on the family ranch at Paisley Farms in Glasgow with his brother Tom and sister Judy. Dave graduated from Glasgow High School in 1975 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture at Montana State University in Bozeman in 1979.
Charla Taylor was born in Omaha, Nebraska on September 29, 1953 to Charles and Elsie (Allen) Brown. Charla graduated from Omaha North High School in 1971 and lived in Oregon and later in Concord, California. In 1989, her son Paul Kievan Taylor was born, and in 1990, Charla relocated to Helena. Charla’s sister Rita Cortright welcomed Charla and Paul to Helena, where they all lived together before Dave and Charla met.
Dave and Charla met in a western dance class in Helena where Charla took weekly lessons with her son Paul, then 2 years old. Dave and Charla were together all the time from then on and were married at the First Presbyterian Church in Helena on April 17, 1993.
In 1995, Dave and Charla began serving as foster parents in the Helena community. They focused on taking in at-risk newborns as foster parents with the intent to adopt a child and offer a stable home and life. In 1998, they fostered and then adopted son Kaleb David Taylor, who was born in 1997.
Dave had a lifelong career with the State of Montana Department of Agriculture. He started as an agricultural inspector and later worked as a Field Program Manager and Agricultural Specialist before retiring as the Chief of the Commodity Services Bureau in 2005. After retiring, he became a realtor at Real Estate of Montana where he worked closely with Charla for 11 years, and they later became owner/brokers.
Charla began working in Helena at the Governor’s Budget Office at the State Capitol, and then worked as a law secretary before moving into real estate. Charla spent most of her career as a realtor and later an owner/broker with Real Estate of Montana and was also a businesswoman and owner of multiple businesses in Helena, including Montana Property Management and Lincoln Road RV Park.
Dave and Charla were active members of the community as volunteers and members of multiple service clubs and professional associations. Charla was a member of Helena Kiwanis and a Salvation Army volunteer and Dave was a member of the Helena Chamber Singers, Parkinson’s Support Group, and Rock Steady Boxing.
Dave and Charla spent much of their lives as hockey parents and Dave was a hockey coach to Paul. They enjoyed watching and supporting their sons Kaleb and Paul in sports throughout their childhoods. Dave’s personal hobbies also included coin collecting, woodworking, and building projects. Charla was an avid gardener and enjoyed reading and spending time with her family and pets.
Dave was quiet, funny, and an endlessly supportive husband and father. Charla was outgoing, kind, and strong and always had time for anyone who needed her and would listen to everyone. Dave and Charla lived their lives to help and support those around them and would help anyone in need. Dave and Charla will be missed forever and were greatly loved by all who knew them. Our greatest strength comes in knowing they are together still in heaven.
They are survived by their sons, Paul Taylor of Whitefish, MT and Kaleb Taylor; Dave’s brother Tom Taylor (Kim) of Spokane, WA; Charla’s sister Rita Cortright (Bob) of Helena, MT and her brothers Charles Brown (Leslie), James “Mick” McKay (Marilyn), both of Omaha, NE. They were preceded in death by Dave’s father and mother, Muncie and Dorothy Taylor, and his sister Judy Orth; Charla’s father and mother, Charles and Elsie Brown, and sisters Patricia Jewett, Ardith Wilburn, Barbara Kubie, Dolores Teeter, and brother Roy C. Brown.
Dave and Charla are also survived by Terry and Anita Teichrow of Spokane, WA; Travis Taylor (Jordan) and Chase Taylor (Beth) of Whitefish, MT; Mallory Taylor and Chad Taylor, both of Spokane, WA; Katrina Orth of Great Falls, MT; Jonathan Orth (Charam) of Glasgow, MT; and ten grandnieces and nephews in Montana and Washington in addition to many nieces and nephews in Omaha, Nebraska and the surrounding area.
Services will include family receiving friends on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave, Helena. The funeral service will be Thursday, March 29, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home with a reception and graveside service to follow. In honor of Dave and Charla, donations can be made to two local nonprofits that they supported personally, the Lewis & Clark Humane Society, P.O. Box 4455, Helena, MT 59604 and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Helena, 30 W. 6th Ave, Helena, MT 59601; which both have a recognized Dave and Charla Taylor memorial fund. Flowers can be sent to Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home in Helena. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Dave and Charla.
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday March 28, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Celebration of Life
1:00 p.m.
Thursday March 29, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Service
Thursday March 29, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Graveside Service
Immediately following Reception
Thursday March 29, 2018
Forestvale Cemetery
490 Forestvale Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday March 28, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Celebration of Life
1:00 p.m.
Thursday March 29, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Service
Thursday March 29, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Graveside Service
Immediately following Reception
Thursday March 29, 2018
Forestvale Cemetery
490 Forestvale Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Share
Shari & Tom Brownlee says
Dave and Charla were such great folks and will be dearly missed. Our Helena real estate family is devastated to hear of this tragedy. We’re sending our heartfelt condolences to the Taylor families.
Gail McKinnon says
Dave & Charla were wonderful people & neighbors. They both had huge hearts & were so helpful to all who asked. It is a horrific loss to their families & to all who had the incredible opportunity to know them. May God give comfort & Grace to their families now & forever.
Gail McKinnon & family
Kalli Kind says
I had the privilege of working with Charla over the past two years. She was always so kind and helpful. I regularly told her how thankful I was to know her. Sending prayers to the families for strength and healing.
Amy Sandru says
Our family had the pleasure of meeting Charla and Dave 10 years ago,without them I don’t know where we would be.They believed in a couple of strangers and gave us a chance,they helped us to start buying our first home.I will miss hearing Charla’s voice when I call,she was always so happy to hear from us. Charla and Dave mean the world to our family and we will miss them greatly.I send a big thank you to them,for everything.May they rest in peace knowing how loved they are.May their family,friends and all they touched find peace.
Bonnie Distasio says
My thoughts and prayers are with all who lost the Taylor family
Kevin and Kelsey Kyle says
One day not long ago we offered to pay extra because Dave and Charla had done us an extra favor through their business. Dave said something quietly and I said, “what was that, Dave?” Charla said, “he said it’s not about the money”. They always went above and beyond for us and never accepted extra payment. We got to know Dave and Charla through business but they always treated us like dear friends, talking and sharing about their lives as if we were members of their family. We will miss their positive influence in our lives and in the community. Rest In Peace you two beautiful people. We love you.
Jerry and Debbie Reddig says
We offer our condolences to Tom, Kim and family, also to Charla’s family and all their friends and family. We have known Dave’s family for many years and were shocked to read of his passing. Christ knows your pain and sees your tears.
Kelly Anderson says
Sending heartfelt condolences to Dave & Charla’s families. My husband, Swede, who past away in August, worked for them in Real Estate and they were wonderful to both of us. Such kind and big hearted people. Such a terrible, sad loss. God’s Blessings to the families.
Kara Fenton says
Sending thoughts and prayers to the family. I’ve known both Dave and Charla for many years. I grew up babysitting for Charla and recently reconnected with her the last few years. I’m so sorry for your loss. They were both the most kindest people who would offer help to anyone needing it. Rest in peace <3
Kate Andeson says
Years ago when my children and I moved in across the alley from Dave and Charla they were the first neighbors over to welcome us. My son and their oldest son became friends and they were so welcoming to my son when he was visiting their home. I continued my friendship with the Taylors after they moved and when I sold my house Dave helped me with the move. They were all around great people and the community will miss them dearly. Paul – we are thinking of you, Kate, Christian, and Aislinn
Kim Enkerud says
My prayers to the families of Dave and Charla. I remember when we all rode the Tampico school bus to Glasgow. Long time ago, but some memories never fade. May God Bless.
Diana Costanzo says
So sorry for your lose Rita, and Paul. My heart goes out to you and Paul. She was a wonderful person, I loved her and always have thought of her as a sister as I do you. Continued prayers for you and your family and friends.
Diana Brown Costanzo
April and Justin says
While we only knew Charla and Dave for a few short years the news of their passing created a canyon in our hearts forever. Charla and Justin were very close and we always looked forward to speaking with both Dave and Charla. Charla always gave the best hugs. Dave was always so soft spoken but we loved him just the same. Prayers to the family and rest in peace Charla and Dave.
Julie & Jim DeMars says
We just simply have no words…Keeping you close in thought and prayer, Paul. May Dave and Charla rest in peace forever.
Cindy Stevick says
Charla and Dave were such loving and generous people, and played a very important role in the Helena real estate market. I was blessed to know them and to work with them. They always supported the many Realtor functions and fund raising events with their presence as well as their contributions. I was thrilled to be the top bidder for one of Dave’s walking sticks. He was so quietly proud of that walking stick with a Rail Road pin on the end of it, and I was excited to call it mine! There was always a sincere gentleness about Dave. And Charla was always a pleasure to be around, always friendly, caring and positive. These two were deeply loved and will be missed by their family and all the fortunate people whose lives they touched. May they both rest peacefully together in heaven!
Laureen Dordal says
Godspeed……
Lorna (McCarl) Smith says
Rest in peace, Dave & Charla . Paul & Family we wish you peace and love. Lorna Smith & Sharon Ferriter
Lorna (McCarl) Smith says
Rest in Peace Dave & Charla. Paul and Family we wish you peace & Love. Lorna Smith & Sharon Ferriter
Kitty Lou Rusher says
I remember Dave as an insightful, serious, thoughtful English student at Glasgow High School. Tom, you and Kim have lost a dear brother.
My sincerest sympathy to all of the family and friends.
Dean Retz says
Lasting memories of Charla and Dave. Charla’s beautiful smile and Dave’s fantastic sense of humor! God Bless.
Catherine M says
I’m so very sorry. I didn’t know either of these folks, but wish I had from the comments here. RIP Dave & Charla.
Jen Buszka says
I am so sorry for your loss. I got to know Dave when he started to attend Rock Steady Boxing. Dave never missed a class. I will miss him dearly and his smiling face and laughter. He was always joking around and brought so much to our group. I loved his optimism and kindness he shared with others.
Mike and MaryJo Guttenberg says
We knew Dave from high school and he had one of the most gentle souls. Prayers for the family as you go through this difficult loss.
Betty Brewer says
I did not have the pleasure of knowing this beautiful couple but my heart goes out to their family and friends. May God grant you all the peace, healing and comfort that passes all understanding. Thank you Jesus for giving this beautiful couple to so many and thank you for blessing all the lives they touched. I ask that you continue to bless all with the love and compassion that they shared while here on earth. Father continue to shower everyone with your love and let them always feel Dave and Charla’s love and encouragement in every hug, every smile and every beautiful memory they shared. God Bless this couple and hold their family and friends in the palm of your loving and comforting arms. In Jesus precious name Amen. RIP with your Savior Jesus Christ!
Peggy and Tom Likens says
We were just getting to know Dave and Charla. They were quiet, unassuming people who were very helpful. I am very saddened by the loss of these two wonderful people. Rest In Peace, dear ones.
Evelyn Sass says
Our Sincere Condolences to the Taylor’s loved ones. In reading all the memories written, they were both wonderful, caring, thoughtful, generous folks. The tragic violence taking the Taylors is truly shocking as I read about it in the IR. So very unjust for them. Justice will happen swiftly we trust. Good job by Helena Law Enforcement investigation.
Terri Held says
We were privileged to know Dave and Charla when our son, Matthew, was in grade school with Paul. They were so kind and loving to our son and he always enjoyed being at their house. They were such wonderful, loving people. Our thoughts are with the families and we send our love and prayers.
Rob Bird says
I have no words to express the loss I feel, and I am sure there are many, many people out there who feel the same way. They were great people and great friends and will be missed 🙁
Sus Bristow says
Dave was a spark of sunshine in our Rock Steady Boxing family. He always came in to class with a smile on his face ready to workout with, and encourage our group. D3, as we referred to him, was kind and soft spoken most of the time but he knew just when to crack a joke and make everybody laugh. There is a big hole in the hearts of our boxers left by the his passing. May he and Charla Rest In Peace
Kris Wokal Magstadt says
Dave was in a high school vocal quartet that I had the privilege of accompanying on the piano. He was quiet, gentle and kind hearted with an amazing voice. I will always have fond memories of him. May God bless your family as you travel this difficult journey.
Dona Losett says
Paul I am truly sorry for your loss; many memories, as a hockey family always has, of your parents in the hockey stands during practices, games, tournaments, and of course “hotel hall hockey”. They loved watching you play hockey and I will forever remember their smiles!! They are and will always be missed….God Bless!!
Flavia Montgomery says
Charla and David were one of the greatest people a met . They weren’t just neighbor , they were friends that care about me and others. I will miss them forever ! I will miss seem Charla working in her yard that always looked amazing or David walking him dog. I will have them in my heart forever. May God, bless their family now and always.
Flavia Montgomery
Caring Person says
SYMPATHY QUILT
If only warm thoughts and gentle words
could be sewen together
I would gather all I could find
and create a quilt of comfort
that would keep you from the sarrows cold.
Kelly J DeWolf says
I met Charla and Dave when my great friend Kyle Courchane went to work with them. They were so warm and always so inviting and supportive. Charla had an amazing strength that allowed her to deal with Dave’s declining heath and yet inspire Real Estate of Montana to become a very effective office. I will miss them a great deal and now they are all looking down on us with great love and appreciation. Love you guys
Kara says
Dave and Charla were some of the kindest people I have ever met. They were also some of the most dedicated and loving parents. Paul, please take care and if you need anything at all don’t hesitate to call. God bless.
Andrew says
Charla
I could only be grateful when I realized that I would rather have know you for a moment than never at all, I would rather endure this inexplicable pain of loss then to never had seen your face. And forever long as I walk this earth I will carry you in my heart.
Love Andrew
Bill, Pam, Ian and Molly Erickson says
Paul and Rita – Please know that we are thinking of you and wish that words could be of comfort. I have such fond memories of my time with Charla – I can hear her laughter and see the twinkle in those beautiful eyes. She was such a good friend, mother, and wife. Dave was so kind and a gentle soul – a true match for Charl’s continuous spark! I am so sorry for your loss of these two wonderful people. Love to all of you.
Peggy Trenk says
Dave and Charla were exceptional people. I worked most closely with Charla who was, simply a “force of nature”. She was the property manager for the MT. Assoc. of REALTORS building while I worked there and had the most “can do” attitude of anyone I’ve ever known. If she couldn’t find something in her toolbox to fix the problem she had 5 people on speed dial who’d take care of it. They made a great team in business and in life. Dave and Charla left us too soon, but they made every day count in terms of leaving the world a little better than they found it.
Shelly George says
Dave was a great classmate at Glasgow high school. Was a great guy and will be missed by many people. God bless the whole family.
David & Lynn says
Dave & Charla were excellent neighbors. When ever we did a project around they came over and offered help other times they just joined in the fun. They always had a smile and waved when we drove by. During a projected I asked them what drives you to come over and help, Dave responded, “This is what neighbors do for each other”. When Dave’s health started declining I started plowing their driveway out, the last time I cleaned out the driveway Dave came out and watched when I finished Dave tried to pay me for all the times I plowed the driveway out, I just looked at him and said do you remember what you told me when I asked you why you pitched in and helped, Dave just looked at me and I responded, “This is what neighbors do for each other”. Dave came up to me and gave me a big bear hug. This is just one of many memories I will cherish. We will never forget their acts of kindness and words of wisdom. We will miss both of their smiling faces.
David & Lynn T.
Janet and Ted Ries says
Charla and Dave were a very special couple and will be missed. We knew them via their property management business and they were two of the most generous and kind people we have had the privilege to know. Our condolences to the family.
Terri Kunz says
Paul, my heart aches for your loss. Our family loved being a part of the hockey traveling family which all of you were such a wonderful part. Charla was always supportive and guided us through much. Dave was warm and loving. They touched a lot of lives and their touch lives on in many and especially you.
We can’t be there for you today but you are sincerely in our thoughts and prayers.
Blessings and healing be yours. Terri, Bob, Dustin
Lynn Worsech says
Paul, I am so sorry for your loss. You had incredible parents.They touched the hearts of so many people. God bless you. You will always be in my prayers.
The Lucas Family says
We send our most heartfelt sympathy to your family for the tragic loss of Dave and Charla. There is nothing said that will make this loss easier but please know that others do care. Daily may God give the needed comfort (Ps.94:19) and strength. They touched the lives of others in a positive way and will always be fondly remembered.