Lillian Neville Dykstra passed away at her home on Thursday, January 15, 2015. Lillian was born in Helena, Montana on July 26, 1922 to Edgar and Florence Neville. She was preceded in death by her mother and father and her husband Dan in March 1999.
Lillian is survived by her son Doug (Dawn) Dykstra, daughter Kathy Smith, 8 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Additional family members include: Rich and Kathy Basham, Kent, WA; Beverly Martin, Whitefish, MT; Florence Cole, Madison, WI; Richard Lockey family, Helena, MT; LeRoy Michaelson family, Helena, MT; William Simpson family, Seattle, WA.
Lillian graduated from Helena High School. She attended the University of Montana in Missoula, Montana after which she married her high school sweetheart, Daniel Dykstra, on May 5, 1944. After graduation they returned to Helena.
Lillian was an active and lifelong member of the First Baptist Church of Montana and belonged to the Delta Gamma Sorority at U of M, Eagles, the Westerners and Miriam Chapter #1 Order of Eastern Star. She was a member of PEO for 55 years and a lifelong member of the Lewis & Clark Republican Women’s group. She was proud to have been a member of the Last Chance Gulch Restoration Society responsible for the rehabilitation of the Pioneer Cabin in Helena, where she and Dan celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
Lillian and Dan enjoyed travel, having been to Hawaii and Europe. They enjoyed visiting friends and relatives throughout the country. They particularly liked to escape the cold Montana winters for the sun in Palm Desert and San Diego, California.
Lillian enjoyed playing cards with her bridge group. She loved a leisurely dinner at the Montana Club listening to the music of Steve and Blackie.
We would like to acknowledge the personal care Lillian received from Shelby King so that she could remain at home throughout her illness. We would also like to thank those from Hospice who have helped Lillian.
A memorial service celebrating Lillian’s life will be held a 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2015 at the First Baptist Church of Montana located on the corner of Warren Street and 8th Avenue. A reception will be held at the church immediately following the memorial service.
In lieu of flowers the family would suggest donations in Lillian’s name to the First Baptist Church of Montana, the American Cancer Society, Toys for Tots or your favorite charity.
To offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Lillian please visit below.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
2:00 p.m.
Thursday January 22, 2015
First Baptist Church
Corner of Warren and 8th
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Celebration of Her Life
Thursday January 22, 2015
First Baptist Church
Corner of Warren and 8th
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
2:00 p.m.
Thursday January 22, 2015
First Baptist Church
Corner of Warren and 8th
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Celebration of Her Life
Thursday January 22, 2015
First Baptist Church
Corner of Warren and 8th
Helena, Montana 59601
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Ellen Baumler says
My sincere condolences to Kathy, Anna, and family. Lillian was a true kindred spirit, a real Helenan at heart, always full of historic tidbits and wonderful stories. She frequently called me to share her insights, and I always delighted in talking with her. She taught me much. I feel privileged to have known her. She will be missed.
Robert Lockey Cole says
My family and I extend our sincere sympathy to the family of Lillian Dykstra. We remember her as someone who would always light up a room with her love. May we all carry on her influence in our lives
Richard Semans says
My sincere condolences to Kathy, Anna and the family. Lillian was a fine Christian lady who is surely resting now in the arms of her Lord, Jesus. Knowing her was indeed my privilege as she helped guide me and my family in our walk with Jesus. We will surely miss her.
Frank Kromkowski says
Heartfelt condolences to Doug Dykstra and all of the Dykstra family. “She goes to light, life, love” (Elizabeth of the Trinity) and is now, as in life on earth, in the loving hands of the God of love.
Rehanna Olson says
Doug, Kathy, and family: Todd and I send our love and prayers to you in this difficult time. Although hard for those of us left here on earth, there is joy in knowing we will meet again. God Bless you all! Todd, Rehanna, Spencer, Caitlin, and William
Ellen Rae Thiel says
Kathy, I was sorry to read in the newspaper that your mother had died. I remember that I did meet her one time and do remember how much you talked about her and how much you loved her. My thoughts are with you during this sad time.
Tom and Judy Rolfe says
Kathy, Doug and the Dykstra Family,
We are so sorry to hear that you lost your Mom. Lillian was a gracious lady who will be greatly missed. She and Dan were great lifelong friends of my folks, they left us all a strong legacy to follow. Please know we are thinking of you all at this difficult time.
Alysa Semans says
Dear Kathy and Family. We are sending our thoughts and prayers during this time. Lillian was a wonderful lady and always had a smile on her face. She will be greatly missed. May God comfort you during this time. God bless and Love, Alysa, Dustin, Nathaniel, Patrick and Aurora Semans