Dorothy “Dottie” Nansel, 94, passed away on May 13, 2019 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, MT. Dottie was born July 16th, 1924 in Vernon Parish, LA. to Clara and S.Y. Bays. She graduated in 1941 from Homer High School in Homer, LA. After completing Perry Business School, she was hired as secretary to the president of Louisiana Paper Co. in Shreveport, LA. It was in Shreveport that she met the love of her life-Don Nansel- while temporarily stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base.
After marriage, Don brought Dottie back to his hometown of Hysham, MT where they owned and operated Treasure Lumber and Hardware for 35 years. In 1979 they retired, sold the store, and moved to Billings, MT. After Don’s death, Dottie eventually moved to Helena in order to be closer to family.
Dottie was a member of the Hysham Community Church, a Past Worthy Matron of the “Order of Eastern Star”, Elks Lodge member, and a Life Master Member of the American Contract Bridge League.
She is survived by her son, Dale Nansel, of San Francisco, CA, daughter Jane (Alan) of Helena, MT, grandson Andrew and great-grandson Hayden Erickson of Helena, MT, grandson Steven (Cassie) Erickson of Idaho Falls, ID, and numerous nieces and nephews. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents Sel and Clara Bays, sisters Lucille and Rose, and brothers Raymond, Earl, and John Edwin.
Cremation has taken place. Dottie’s ashes will be interred at the Meyer’s cemetery Friday, June 28th at 2:00, and a “ Happy Hour” celebration of her life will be held Saturday, June 29th in Billings at the Elks Lodge from 4:00-6:00.
We know that mom is once again enjoying a night of “tripping the light fantastic” with her husband and playing competitive games of bridge.
jackie dassinger says
Dottie’s loved ones: I am shocked and saddened learning of Dottie’s passing. She has been one of my dearest and precious friends for many years. Hearing her voice and having great gab sessions will be very much missed. I dearly loved that one of a kind woman!! Jackie Dassinger
Dee Hert says
Dottie was remarkable, I envied her energy. I have numerous good memories of times in Hysham with the family. Loved the Thanksgiving family gatherings with various aunts, uncles and cousins.
Family is precious, stay in touch.
Much love to you all,
Dee Hert
Art Thompson says
I was saddened of course to hear of Dottie’s passing, but I never think of Dottie without her giving me a smile. I was her driver during the time she lived at Westpark Village in Billings, and every one of those occasions was a joy. She loved to talk, she loved to laugh, and boy did she love to dance. I still think of her often.
Now, I say “Laissez les bon temps rouler” Dottie. What a girl!
Liane says
Such good friends Dottie and Don were. We have such fond memories of times with the two of them. She had called and left a message for us in March and I tried to get back to her but couldn’t get her. I know how much she loved you all. Wish we could be there for her celebration of life but we won’t be able to get to Montana until mid july.
Bob and Linda Miars says
We are saddened to hear of Dotties passing and our hearts go out to Dale and Jane and their families. Dottie was a special Lady with a large heart.
Ron Marshall says
Even though many years have passed, I consider her a friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.