VIEW LIVE SERVICE HERE: 1:00 p.m. Saturday, October 3rd
Doretta Deveny Hofland left this world on June 30, 2020. She was born January 30, 1949 to Thomas and Kathleen Deveny and grew up on a farm/ranch west of Forsyth, MT.
Doretta graduated Forsyth High School in 1967 and from Rocky Mountain College in 1971 and began what she called, ‘the career of a lifetime’ in education. In 1994 she earned her Master of Computer Education Degree from Lesley College.
In 1978 Doretta married the love of her life, Ray Hofland, and together they raised three children: Richard (Ricky), Dawn Rae, and Randa Jo. She loved her family with all her heart and reveled in her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was also particularly attached to her Deveny cousins, without whom she felt her life would have been terribly lonely. When she married, she also became terribly fond of the Hofland cousins. Doretta considered herself to be ‘wealthy’ when surrounded by friends and family.
Doretta loved teaching and she loved her students, spending 31 years in the elementary classroom. She referred to her students as “her children”. She always claimed that she did not teach children reading, arithmetic, etc., but rather she taught children: how to read; how to figure out math problems; and about their history. Upon retirement, Doretta worked part time with student teachers, learning that she loved working with students of all ages.
Doretta also loved volunteering. Her first love was Vocal Credit Union where she served the bulk of her time on the Board and on the Supervisory Committee. She spent countless hours at the Montana Military Museum at Fort Harrison logging in materials and soaking up as much history as she could. She also served on the Homeowner’s Association Board of her subdivision.
Doretta was preceded in death by her parents, son Richard, and daughter Dawn Rae. She is survived by her husband Ray, daughter Randa Jo, as well as grandchildren and great grandchildren.
We wish to extend a special thank you to Dr. Weiner and the wonderful nursing staff at the Cancer Center. Also, a special thank you to the wonderful staff at Alpine Prime Physical Therapy. She was surrounded by loving caregivers.
A Memorial Service reception will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, October 3, 2020 in the Social Hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the Lewis and Clark Humane Society or Helena Food Share. Please visit below to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Doretta.
Service Schedule
Funeral Reception
1:00 p.m.
Saturday October 3, 2020
Social Hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Funeral Reception
1:00 p.m.
Saturday October 3, 2020
Social Hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
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Mary Kelley says
Doretta was such a lovely and cheerful friend. I will miss her at our Red Hat events. She had a great sense of humor and radiated joy.
Karen Fowler says
This makes me so sad. I will miss her so much. Doretta was a wonderful lady and Red hat sister. Our play dates will never be the same without her. May she rest in peace. I will pray for her family.
Patricia Ladd says
Doretta always had a smile and had a positive attitude toward her illness by enjoying all that she could while she could. She set an example for all her Red Hat sisters. Sincere sympathy to all who loved her.
Pat Howell says
Doretta was such a special lady and gave us all so much joy in the time she was in our Red Hat group. Always had a smile and positive attitude even when she became ill. I will miss her so very, very much.
GOd Bless all her family and friends.
Viki Garman says
Our loss is heaven’s gain. How the angels must be rejoicing to have such a beautiful soul with them! Doretta was always so positive, even through her illness. She was such an inspiration. Red Hat celebrations will never be the same without her. Thank you, Doretta for coming into my life even for just a short while.
Melz Pankratz says
Ray & Coco – My life was blessed and my heart is full of Doretta’s generous hugs, kindness, love for all her Red Hat sisters, her beautiful smile and her always positive attitude. She will be missed so very much. I know she’s already met new Red Hat sisters and busy creating fun for all those around her. Both of you are in my prayers.
Donna Waters says
It was a joy to get to know Doretta. A beautiful, fun loving lady and Red Hat sister. When I think back on our Red Hat play dates, I can hear her contagious laughter! She had such a positive outlook on life and passed that view on to her friends. Doretta, truly a special lady. Thank you for sharing your gift of friendship and joy. Blessings on your family.
Laura Voegele says
I was saddened to hear of Doretta’s passing. She was a great addition to our Red Hat group. I admire the positive attitude Doretta had while facing her illness. I am blessed to have known her even if it was for a short time. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. Rest In Peace Doretta 🙏🙏
Debbie Hofland says
Aunt Doretta i will miss you so much you always welcomed me with open arms and never judged.
Marcia says
Fly high my friend. Bless your heart! ♥️ You will by missed. Hugs! ♥️
Sheridan says
I will forever remember her smile and laugh that would light up any room graced by her presence. I am selfishly sad, but grateful that she is pain free. My thoughts and sympathies to Ray, Coco, and rest of the family.
Linda Kindrick says
Sweet Doretta –
I am so glad our paths crossed again after many years. I will always remember with love our lunch dates, followed by “dropping of coins”. You managed to make $5.00 last far longer than my $20.00. The goal of our lunch dates was to have fun, and fun we had! Going forward when I drop some coins, I will drop $5.00 for you! I only wish we had more time.
You faced your medical challenges with determination (i.e., stubbornness), courage and humor. A more inspirational person I have never known. Ever the teacher, you taught me these same lessons and so many more.
You and Ray helped so many people over the years. No fanfare, just quiet, honest concern and care for those needing help. I am proud to have been a part of your caregiver team to return to you what you so freely gave others.
I love and miss you. You will always be in my heart.
Well done, good and faithful servant.
Mary Matule says
It was such a blessing to be friends with Doretta in Red Hats. Her joy and inner peace were so touching. Always so interested in her friends and full of fun all through her illness when she was able to attend Red Hat events.
What a beautiful lesson she taught us by her well-lived life.
She will be remembered as our precious and loving Red Hat Sister. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family.
Patty Moye Vandelac says
Doretta to me was my savoir when I was at a loss so many years ago, I was the cousin that really didn’t know anyone since I didn’t live close by, but each time we came to visit she made me feel welcome. When I needed a place to stay when I was looking for an apt. in Helena she offered and made sure when I did find a place that it would be a safe place. I will remember her forever in my heart.
Jackie Deveny Zent says
Ray and family – As Doretta’s aunt she will be missed. She reminded me so much of her mother Kathy. I
spent many days out at the farm with her dad & mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Gretchen Edelen says
Doretta was a wonderful teacher and friend. She was a warm and welcoming person who worked tirelessly to make every moment of her classroom valuable for every child. She will be missed by all of us who loved her.
Marta Ernst says
My heart is broken to have lost such a beautiful person, friend, and colleague. She was a wonderful mentor and friend during my years at 4G’s. After her retirement she would visit JD were I worked to mentor students from Carroll. She was one of the most devoted teachers I have ever met. She loved and was loved by her students, friends, family, and colleagues. I will miss her terribly.
Mandi Fisher (Feucht) says
I didn’t know you as Doretta, you were Mrs. Hofland, my third grade teacher at Ray Bjork. I have clear memories of the first day of school—we had all been told you were strict so I was nervous. I knew how you loved the color red, and drove a fancy red car so I made you a necklace with red beads. You put it on that very day. I didn’t have any reason to be nervous—you commanded respect but you guided me through some tough childhood life lessons that year. Those lessons have stuck with me. Thank you. I saw you years later when I was in college studying to become a teacher myself, and you were getting a coffee at the drive up I worked at during the summer. You remembered me which made me feel special and shared that you were retired and volunteering at the museum. You were a wonderful teacher. I am sending thoughts of peace and comfort to your family at this time. May you Rest In Peace.
Maryann Welch says
Doretta’s mother, Kathleen, was a cousin of my dad’s – Lou Messmer. Kathleen lived with my grandparents in Aberdeen, WA before returning to Montana to marry Tom. Our family of eight loved to descend on the ranch near Forsyth in the summer. Tom, Kathleen and Doretta were so good to us and those trips hold very special memories. I was a couple of years younger than Doretta and so much admired her red Camaro and the ability to go to Forsyth with her for cherry Cokes at the soda fountain! To me Doretta was very exotic as a teenager and later such a lovely upbeat woman. She regularly wrote entertaining letter to my dad that he enjoyed. Doretta was taken too soon – she had so much to offer her family and her community. Thinking of you Ray and family.
Julie Strong says
She was my 1st grade teacher in the 80’s at Lincoln School. She was my favorite teacher that I ever had. I still remember her favorite color was pink and even her car was pink. My mom made cabbage patch kids when I was young and we had to make her one also. I never forgot her over the years. Seeing her out and having her remember me met everything. Last time I saw her was last year at the grocery store and I as we talked I wished I could of given her my phone number so we could met later and talk more. Heaven definitely gained an angel. Fly high you will be missed.
Doris Walden says
Dear Ray & Cocoa, it is with deep sadness as I write this note. Doretta was a true friend with a kind heart who never judged anyone. She loved eating out at restaurants and always had a bag of nuts in her purse for her salads. She loved clothes shopping and meeting new people. She will be missed terribly. Rest In Peace.
Donna Turcott says
Doretta was a wise and generous co-worker as we supervised Carroll College student teachers together. I always enjoyed meeting with her and admired her many volunteer commitments. I’ll always remember her with a big smile and an easy chuckle! Yes, she will be missed terribly.
Peg Hunter says
Doretta, I will remember you as a kind, enthusiastic, friendly, and loving person who adored children and embraced the joy of teaching. You always had a special flair and a positive attitude. Blessings to your family during this difficult time. Peace to you.
Mickey Kunnary says
I met Doretta through the boards at Vocal CU and I am so glad I did. She was forever smiling and happy and we had many great times. I loved visiting and laughing with her. The world is a darker place without her in it. May God keep your family in his arms during this hard time. Godspeed, my friend!
Lauren Murphy says
I knew Doretta for years as a fellow teacher in the Helena School district but I really got to know her when she supervised student teachers in my classroom. She was always so upbeat and happy. Her friendly approach put the student teachers at ease and they welcomed her visits to observe them. She had great suggestions and encouragement. She helped prepare the next generation of teachers. Rest in peace.
Kevin and Margaret Kauska says
We are very sad to hear of Doretta’s passing. We are sending love and prayers to you and yours Ray. May you all find peace in your memories.
Donnie Sexton says
Doretta taught both of my boys in grade school. She was a marvelous teacher and we feel lucky for the positive influence she had on our family. I saw her many years later and she always had a big hug and smile for me. Sending love and prayers to her family.
Deb Hofland says
Ray…our thoughts & prayers are with you! Doretta was such a lovely lady; I have very fond memories of her when I stayed with you all those years ago for teachers’ conventions; she & I would sit for hours and gab about teaching & our families. And when our Hofland Family had gatherings at Arline’s in Deer Lodge, I LOVED that you guys came–or when we dropped in for visits at your home; she & I could just start up where we left off the last time.
I loved her elegance, how feminine she was & how tender-hearted and still a solid rock at times too. We had such great conversations about politics and religion. She challenged my thinking, and I learned so much from her! She had so much passion and compassion! I have always wished that we lived closer so I could spend more time with her (and you, too, of course)!
Nick & I will always be thankful that you & Doretta made room in your home and in your lives for Robbie & Amber, and that you guys called us after we moved to Billings in 1987, to tell us about these two children who needed a family–and knew that we needed them, too! You have both been a blessing to our family–and I hope we to yours. Ray, I hope you know–you are always welcome to hang with the Hofland Cousins–we love you so!
Mike and Gail Zimmerman says
I always loved running into Doretta. She always had a smile on her face and we loved chatting even for a short time. She so loved the people in her life and she will be greatly missed. Ray if you need anything please dont hesitate to give us a call. Prayers for you and your family. Mike and Gail
Myrna Omholt-Mason says
Ray, I was shocked and upset to read of Doretta’s passing. I know throughout her times of trial that she couldn’t have had a better caregiver. You have our heartfelt sympathy.
Kay E York says
Doretta was a wonderful ‘niece’ to my parents. She wrote many, many letters to them over the years. She was a great storyteller so her letters were much anticipated.
I always enjoyed visits at the ranch, her home with Ray and Coco in Helena, and here in Washington. She is very much missed and I treasure my memories of her and her smile.
Kay Johnson says
Ray – I’m so sorry about Doretta. She was such a light in the world and you two were meant to be together. Put one foot in front of the other, one day at a time, and be comforted by the memories of all of the wonderful times that you shared.
Gretchen Edelen says
Doretta was a kind and loving teacher and friend. Our family was so fortunate to have had her in our lives.
Eddie Black says
Doretta was a first class lady and a wonderful volunteer at Vocal CU (formerly Trico Community FCU). She was strong and wise and always willing to “tell you like it is” while supporting you as you went on to do it correctly. She was a great listener and willing to offer great advice. She was always smiling and happy regardless how she was feeling. I will miss her and so will the credit union.
Doreen Filson says
We were very sorry to hear of the passing of Doretta, she was a special person. Doretta and Ray made a wonderful couple. We always enjoyed hearing their stories of going to the State Fairs with their dog. Helena lost a great teacher and friend.
Ray and family our thoughts and prayers are with you1
Jill cook says
As a substitute teacher in the Helena School District, I had the privilege of subbing at Ray Bjork Elementary School.
Doretta was an enthusiastic, kind, and caring teacher. She always had a smile for all! Jill Cook
Don and Dora Jermunson says
Dora and Don Jermunson
Ray, thoughts and prayers for you and Doretta. Memories are held dearly, Doretta is surely watching over you, family, including without a doubt, her students. Thanks to God for the years he has given us.
Lowell Peterson says
Doretta will be missed by all who knew her. She was a wonderful teacher, volunteer at events and a friend. She and Ray were members of our Helena Fantasy League Baseball group. She offered and stepped up to help me with the paperwork for our original draft nights which was appreciated so much. At our bi-weekly drafts nights she an Ray rarely missed a night to be there and socialize and share their friendship with the rest of us. And not only were they both there but so was their dog Coco in her rolling dog buggy. I always enjoyed visiting with her and Ray as did the rest of our group. She had to work through some other health issues in the past few years but work through them she did which was a testament to her drive and determination. Doretta was a great example for all her family and friends to try to emulate. Thank you for all you meant to me and your friendship. But now that you will know which baseball players are going to have a great upcoming season don’t give Ray to much inside information as he makes his picks so the rest of us will still have a chance to win it. 🙂 Love you Doretta.
Kris says
Ray and family,
It was a blessing to know Doretta.
She is a dear friend of my sister, Karyl, and brought love and joy into her life.
She is missed and loved.
Kris
Sarah Jones says
Mrs. Hofland left a large imprint on my heart. She was by far the best teacher. She was my 4th grade teacher at Four Georgians, and what an awesome teacher she was. I had a lot of changes happening in my life that year and I remember her helping in any way she could. I would always loved running in to her in town, it’s been several years now so to hear this news breaks my heart. But I know she’s in a better place watching over all of us. What a wonderful woman she was. She will definitely be missed. ❤️
FJ says
Thinking of Doretta on the first anniversary of her passing.
With comfort in her absence,
Fran