The funeral mass will be livestreamed. To view the livestream, please click the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQR7D-gy6Z3TmeXSQ5Sk45w/featured
Kathleen “Kathy” A. (Whelan) Sampson, 66, of Helena, MT was called to Heaven on January 30, 2026, surrounded by love.
Kathy was born in Butte, Montana on February 26, 1959, to John “Jack” and Roberta “Bobbie” Whelan. She was the second oldest of six children. Kathy attended St. Ann’s and Hawthorn Elementary School, then South Central, and graduated from Butte Central High School in 1977. She met her best friend and future husband Mike Sampson while at Central and they started dating their senior year. Kathy then went on to graduate from the University of Montana in accounting. While she enjoyed school and the friendships made in Missoula, she rushed through in three years to return to Mike and her family. She graduated in May 1980 and married her high school sweetheart six months later in November. They made their home in Butte until 1983 when they moved to Helena. They then welcomed their three children – Patrick, Kiely, and Shaun. Kathy referred to them as her three little Irishmen, and they were the joys of her life!
As a family, Mike, Kathy, and the kids enjoyed camping and floating the rivers. They spent weekends skiing and when team sports started, the Sampson family traveled the state and even some of the country to support each other.
Faith and family were most important in Kathy’s life. She was very active in her faith community and taught religious education classes and Children’s Liturgy of the Word for many years at St. Mary Catholic Community. Kathy loved spending time with her extended family. She treasured all her memories with the Whelans and the Sampsons.
After college, Kathy went on to obtain her CPA. She was a shareholder with Anderson ZurMuehlen/Employee Benefit Resources until her retirement in 2019. She enjoyed a remarkable 32-year career there where she worked with amazing people who became long time friends.
Any spare time Kathy could find, she spent with various volunteer organizations. She served two terms on the Special Olympics of Montana board, an organization near and dear to her heart. She was also active in school boosters, Florence Crittenton, the Foundation for the Diocese of Helena, and many others.
Kathy was an amazing wife, mom, daughter, sister, and friend. But perhaps her funnest role was “Bobo”. She was a grandmother to nine wonderful grandchildren. After retirement, Kathy planned her days around her grandkids and their activities.
Special thanks to the caregivers, especially Phoenix, Jerrica, and Chrissy, and hospice nurses who helped care for her during her battle with ALS.
Kathy is predeceased in death by her father, Jack Whelan, and her father and mother-in-law, Bob and Patsy Sampson.
She is survived by her husband, Mike Sampson, her mother Bobbie Whelan, her kids, Pat (Sarah) Sampson, Kiely (Bob) Thoen, Shaun (Mariah) Sampson, her grandchildren, Shane, Bryce, Chase, Lane, Kalan, Kyler, Miles, James, and Emily, her siblings, Joan Whelan, Mary (Mike) Crowe, John Whelan, Janet (Brian) White, Bob (Lana) Whelan, her brothers and sisters-in-law, Bill (Kathy) Sampson, Pat Sampson, Bob (Missy) Sampson, Dan (Jill) Sampson, Scott (Shannon) Sampson, her aunts, uncle and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Kathy was blessed with a very large extended family who loved her dearly and will miss her very much.
A vigil will be held on Tuesday, February 3rd at 7:00 p.m. and a funeral mass will follow on Wednesday, February 4th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Community. A family interment service will be held at a later date at Holy Cross Cemetery in Butte.
In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Special Olympics of Montana (710 1st Ave. North, Great Falls, MT), Montana ALS Association, or an organization of your choice.
Service Schedule
Vigil
7:00pm
Tuesday February 3, 2026
St. Mary's Catholic Community Church
1700 Missoula Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Funeral Mass
11:00am
Wednesday February 4, 2026
St. Mary's Catholic Community Church
1700 Missoula Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Funeral Mass
Wednesday February 4, 2026
St. Mary's Catholic Community Church
1700 Missoula Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Vigil
7:00pm
Tuesday February 3, 2026
St. Mary's Catholic Community Church
1700 Missoula Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Funeral Mass
11:00am
Wednesday February 4, 2026
St. Mary's Catholic Community Church
1700 Missoula Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Funeral Mass
Wednesday February 4, 2026
St. Mary's Catholic Community Church
1700 Missoula Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
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Kathleen Broussard says
Dear Mike and family,
We are so very sorry about Kathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time. We loved Kathy and will miss her dearly. You guys were always the best neighbors!!
Hugs and Prayers!
Keith, Kathleen and Kory Broussard
Dan & Verna Vuckovich says
I had a good fortune of getting to know Kathy in college. Then later we became partners together at AZ. She was a wonderful lady and an awful smart person. She was so proud of her children and grandchildren. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Timothy J. Bartz says
Mike and Family
Kathy was a huge treasure to everyone who got to know her. We were so blessed by her life as both a business partner and a friend. She seemed exceptional at everything she did but lived her life in humility and service as long as she was able to get around. We are extremely saddened by her early departure from this life but know she is singing with the angels for all eternity. Tim & Trish Bartz
Pam Guschausky says
I had such respect for Kathy. I was honored to be partners with her at the firm. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you at this time.
Mary C Ebert says
We saw how beautiful our daughters were/are. How could We be so lucky to have seen what We hoped They could accomplish and be overwhelmed by what Our girls have done. I loved being one of the Mom’s. We have done so many things right Kathy. Thank you for being a trailblazer to watch over all our girls. I bless the Sampson family long and true to have had Our person, Kathy Sampson who weathered all of the trials of life and left the rest of us to carry on with, hopefully, Her guidance. God Speed Kathy We will all follow in your path.
Jim Woy says
Mike and all of Kathy’s family.
Kathy and I grew up together in Butte, Montana and were reunited later in our careers at Anderson ZurMuehlen. Kathy was so impressive on how she balanced work and her personal life. Her priorities were always clear. When family was in focus she was always there. When work was in focus she always shined. She was confident and opinionated, two traits that she received growing up in Butte. I will miss you Kathy. You were my friend and advocate. God bless you and may your memories live forever with your family.
Lane F. Mathis says
Mike and Kathy’s family.
My wife Janet and I had the privilege of having Kathy as a guest on our salon for 40 years and I had the distinct honor of cutting Kathy’s hair all of those years. Kathy was a humble and kind person who’s moral compass inspired all who knew her. When I was recovering from cancer and lost over 80 pounds coming back to work Kathy made certain I had a warn sweater she purchased , as I was always so cold. We attended the ALS walk Kathy’s family arranged in Missoula last summer and when we arrived Kathy was overwhelmed with joy to see the support from her family and friends…a testament to Kathy’s legacy. I had told Kathy and Mike I would come to their home to cut her hair anytime. Kathy texted me and we set up a time in mid January to cut her hair and just before she texted me back said her condition had advanced to the point it wasn’t possible for the home hair cut. Not being able to give Kathy her last pampering service was so emotion for me. Then in the mail Kathy sent Janet and I a gift certificate for a dinner that reflets the incredible person Kathy was. Every time I had the pleasure of spending time with Kathy, I was inspired to be a better person. Kathy’s passing makes me realize I have lost one of my greatest mentors and I am grateful for her in my life. Writing this with tears of love brings some words to mind: “The soul would have no rainbow if the eyes had no tears”. Your rainbow will always be in my hear. All our love goes out to Kathy’s family.
Tim Janiak says
Kathy was a good person in so many ways. May her memory live on and inspire others to follow in her footsteps.
Rest in peace.
Deb Kralicek says
My deepest sympathy in Kathy’s passing. What a strong and inspirational woman. Thoughts and prayers to all family and friends.
Tracy & Janice Long says
Mike & family- Our deepest sympathy for you and your family our thoughts are with you!! Kathy was a beautiful soul with such a kind heart.
Cindy Utterback says
Mike and family,
Kathy was a friend and mentor to me at Anderson ZurMuehlen for most of my career. We spent many hours bending each other’s ears! She was steady, genuine, hard-working, incredibly dedicated and kind. Kathy always put others first. We’ll all miss her kindness, those twinkling eyes and her beautiful smile. I know it is so difficult to say good-bye to a loved one. Remember, there are no final good-byes for those who live in Christ. My deepest sympathies.
Joe Loendorf says
It was a privilege to have known Kathy both as a colleague and a friend. She was a remarkable person, always a friendly smile and a positive outlook. Kathy will be dearly missed. God Bless.
Don Laine says
Dear Mike and family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Kathy and I “grew up” together at AZ. She started at the firm a year or so before me and was a great mentor and sounding board. In my 34 years at AZ, she was a solid rudder for me and the firm until her well-deserved retirement. EBR would never have been formed without her leadership and vision. I appreciate the support she provided to me and the entire firm. Rest in peace, Kathy.
Lee & Kristi Paulsen says
Mike and family,
We are so sorry to hear about Kathy’s passing. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Kristi and Lee Paulsen and family
Shelly & Ron Davis says
Dear Mike and family, our deepest sympathy to all of you.
I’m grateful for knowing Kathy and learning so much from her in my early career. Her knowledge, kindness and friendship meant so much to me. She will be dearly missed by so many.
Rest in Peace Kathy, your work is done and you made a positive difference in the world.
Shelly & Ron Davis
Dave Rigg says
My sincere condolences to the entire Sampson family. I was privileged to have known Kathy as a business partner and as a friend. Hers was a life too brief but a heart so very kind. She was one of those unique individuals who was so genial that you instinctively felt in their presence that they did you good. She was extremely bright and a true professional. I know the desert will bloom again for her family and the wonderful memories of Kathy will eventually bring peace.
George and Kathy Stirner says
Mike and family…
We are so sorry to hear of Kathy’s passing. She was such a lovely person and you both have been wonderful neighbors. You and your family are in our hearts.
Keith and Katie Meyer says
Mike and Family,
We were sorry to learn about Kathy’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this tender time. She was such a great supporter of youth soccer and we enjoyed traveling to the boys’ soccer games with you and Kathy and others during those years.
Regards, Keith and Katie Meyer
Richard and Christine Snyder says
Mike, I met you at Butte Brush and Broom when I delivered freight. When you moved to Helena, I saw you as well. When you started coming to St. Mary’s, that’s when I met Kathy. We looked forward to seeing you each week. We were shocked at Kathy’s diagnosis, but both of you handled it with grace. You both were always a pleasure to see. We will miss her. We will keep you in our prayers.
Richard and Chris Snyder
Theresa Dennehy says
Mike, Shawn, Pat and Kiely,
I’ve been so sad for all of you. I adore Kathy and have so many great memories with her. I enjoyed our visits and the great conversations. She adored her family. Treasure your memories. Beautiful person.
Bob DenHerder says
It saddens me when you lose a past neighbor at such a young age. My heart goes out to the whole family 🙏🫶
Mary & Pat McMahon says
To Kathy’s Butte & Helena families:
Our sincere sympathy to you all who know what a treasure Kathy has been to so many. We both worked for AZ but Kathy in Helena & I in Butte. Kathy’s occasional visit to Butte AZ was always upbeat & a credit to her profession and the Firm. Our text messages over the past few months of her ALS journey will remain forever close to my heart. Rest in peace dear Kathy & rise in Heaven’s glory.
Wanda Fandry says
My deepest condolences. Kathy was an amazing person, with a beautiful soul. Her latest journey was not one she chose, yet she lived it with grace. She was blessed with her faith, her family and her friends. She was so loved. I miss you ❣️
Kevin Bartsch says
Mike and Family- It’s such a sadness we feel with Kathy’s passing. She was such a sweet person and awesome neighbor. To say she will be missed is an understatement. Please understand you are in our thoughts and prayers. Kevin, Anne, Amanda, Morgan, Dani and Paige Bartsch
Nan LeFebvre says
I was heartbroken to learn of Kathy’s passing. Way too soon. I had the privilege of working with/for Kathy at EBR and she was such a smart and impressive colleague. Most of all, though, Kathy was a truly wonderful person who will be missed by many. My condolences to Mike and family.
Gary Carlson says
Mike & Family
Kathy was so amazing, so dedicated to family, while balancing an extraordinary career. The years of wonderful family memories will be very special. All of you take special care.
Kathy’s career with AZ/EBR over 30+ years exhibited her dedication, valued leadership, management, mentoring, professional expertise and advise. I am privileged to have worked closely with Kathy during her entire career with our firm, resulting in a very special friendship and busness relationship. Her extraordinary level of expertise, advise and counsel was valued, respected and relied upon within our firm and by clients. Kathy was a very special and valued friend. Rest in peace, Kathy.
Linda Terrien and Rick Sulik says
Dear Mike and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Kathy was such a vibrant personality and left a beautiful mark on this world. We thoroughly enjoyed Bobcat football with you all and miss those times together. Those are great memories that will live on in our hearts. Kathy adored her family and was an inspiration as to how she balanced everything while still finding the time to make every person feel special. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Linda Terrien and Rick Sulik and family
JulieAnn Culpon says
Nineteen years ago, Kathy hired me at EBR/AZ giving me the opportunity to start a new chapter in my career. Her strength, humor, and unwavering dedication—especially during challenging times—have always inspired me. She was consistently ready to help, encourage, and lift others up. Even after she retired, Kathy remained a trusted mentor, offering honest advice and wise guidance. Kathy will be greatly missed! Mike, Kiely, and family, you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. God bless.
Cody Sampson says
My condolences uncle Mike, Pat, Kiely, and Shaun. Aunt Kathy was a joy to be around. I will always remember her for the fun family get togethers during the holidays, and seeing her cheering us on throughout the years of sports. Praying for you guys in these tough times. Aunt Kathy will be remembered often and always missed. Miss you guys! Take care!
Marc & Deb Mullowney says
Mike and family. Expressing our condolences and praying for you. Kathy was a wonderful person and beautiful soul. We were classmates from grade school through high school. May the Good Lord bless and comfort you.
Erin Stajcar says
Mike and family,
I was so sad to hear of Kathy’s passing. We grew up together in grade school and South Central and had fun running around the Whalen house. Even though we didn’t see each other a lot there was a big smile and hug when we did. God Bless your family and may your forever memories keep you all going. Rest in Peace my childhood friend you deserve it.
Mike Holland says
Mike and Family
We are so sorry to hear about Kathy’s passing.
Kathy was the most positive upbeat person I’ve known
She was so good at guiding EBR , but I know her family always came first in her life. The class of 77 has lost another beautiful soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time
Mike and Debbie Holland
SHERRY RAMUTA says
Mike and family,
We are saddened to hear of Kathy’s passing. May Gods love and light surround you all through this difficult time.
Sherry and John Ramuta
Dona Cranston says
I was privileged to work with Kathy when I practiced at AZ. I always loved seeing her at the various retreats. When I left AZ to work for a client, Kathy was my go to for their profit sharing plan. I loved it when she came to Billings so we could visit in person. Over the years we worked together, we may have spent more time talking about our lives, kids, grandkids, than business. She became a good friend during this time. I was so sorry when she retired, but I know she was ready to spend more time with her family. I feel so blessed I knew Kathy and I know I will see her in the Next Place. She was a good one! One of the best, actually.