Lisa Cay Pena passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones after a sudden and brief illness at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, Montana on the morning of November 10, 2012. The world was never the same since Lisa was born to Dr. Forrest and Cathryn Schroeder on July 25, 1957 in Kalispell, Montana. Lisa grew up in Eureka, Montana and was the oldest of 5 children. Her sisters and brothers are Rachael Brabeck, Will Schroeder, Amy Schroeder, and Adam Schroeder.
Throughout her life Lisa shared her many gifts that included drawing, music, hiking, gardening, writing, and reading. These are just a few of the many talents Lisa had, but her passion for the outdoors with her abilities to weave all of her gifts into her professional career was special.
Lisa graduated from Carroll College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and from the University of Montana with a Master’s of Psychology. From there she dedicated her life to teaching and counseling. Lisa started her teaching career in the one room school at Sylvanite located in an area of Montana called the Yaak for 4 years. Teaching there affirmed that Lisa was more than just a teacher. As a friend to the community, lover of the outdoors, and a willingness to reach out to individual students and their families, Lisa created an excitement that motivated her students to reach beyond the classroom.
Lisa then moved to Seeley Lake, Montana. It was here she would teach and counsel for the better part of 3 decades. Lisa was more than just your average teacher. Her room was alive with experience. Students were excited with anticipation many times to see what new drawing Lisa would create on the chalkboard or new learning experience she would have created. Her teaching was also not confined to the classroom. Many a field trip opened the minds and hearts of her students to the possibilities of what they could learn and do with their lives. It was easy to see that Lisa loved teaching and believed that the students deserved the best education the school could offer.
Lisa was a person of principal and very professional. She offered her time, talents and resources to the community.
Though Teaching and Counseling might have been Lisa’s profession her passion and love were her 3 daughter’s and 5 grandchildren. Amber Frydenlund is married to Travis and have 2 wonderful sons’ Chase (4) and Trey (2). Annaliese Smail is married to Ryan and they have 3 beautiful children, Audrey (4), Austin (3) and brand new Ella and Ashley Pena who shared her home and is now the Education Coordinator RMDC Head Start.
Once Lisa retired from teaching, her life as a grandmother defined her life. Using all her gifts and talents Lisa could be seen walking, gardening, cooking with them (Lisa was an excellent and creative cook) playing in the park, going to Exploration Works, Carrousel, etc. with them hand in hand almost on a daily basis. I’m sure many a friend’s conversation was filled with the adventures of Lisa’s grandchildren. The grandkids loved visiting “Grandma Lisa’s” home to play with all the fun and creative toys, romp in the backyard, or even to help out in the garden. There was no end to what new adventure’s they might find. Lisa’s office was filled the many pieces of “Artwork” and pictures from her grandchildren. Her love for them knew no bounds.
Until her sudden passing, Lisa worked and served as the Plan Manager, PRTF Waiver in the Developmental Services Division under the Mental Health Bureau. Though retired from a very successful teaching career Lisa filled her days reaching out to people in this “2nd” career.
Lisa also donated to many organizations such as the Audubon Society, National Public Radio, food banks and a number of other nonprofit organizations. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that anyone interested in giving to donate to a nonprofit of their choice in her name. The family has also made the decision to hold a celebration of life for Lisa in the spring when the flowers that she loved so much will be blooming.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Moira McNichols says
I had the great privilage of working with Lisa, first at Shodair Childrens’ Hospital, then at AWARE, Inc. She was a great friend and mentor to me. We laughed together and cried together in the cramped office we shared, and she taught me so much about patience, kindness and courage. She was so caring and generous, and her energy and enthusiasm were contagious. The world has dimmed with the loss of her, but I know that, where ever she is now, it is better for her coming. My deepest sympathy to her family in their time of mourning. Lisa was a wonderful woman.
Mary Beason says
I often think of the time I spent up your place in Seeley, you had such a wonderful garden,
I remember admiring your columbines and you have some seeds to plant at my home. When ever our paths crossed through our travels, it was like meeting up with an old friend, and we picked up right where we left off.
The world was a much better place knowing Lisa. Bill, and girls know that you have my deepest sympathy, and I am sending hugs across the air waves. Let the good times do the healing, and know her legacy lives on in you.
Kathy and Steve Springmeyer says
Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of Lisa’s family who were so important to her. We hope her love and memories of her help sustain you during this difficult time. It was a privilege to get to know Lisa more after she moved to Helena. She was an energetic, caring, and engaged person. She was so proud of all her daughters and enjoyed all her grandchildren so much. I enjoyed our time together on our various outings. Lisa had such a wide range of interests and was always exploring something new. She enriched my life. She will be greatly missed.
Christine Zadra says
To Lisa’s girls and family,
Please accept my heartfelt sympathies for your loss. I had the privilege of working with Lisa for the last 2 years, and I will cherish the time I was fortunate to know her. Lisa was a source of inspiration to me on a daily basis. I admired Lisa for her wisdom and patience, along with her tenacious work ethic. Lisa demanded excellence from herself and others and was steadfast in her beliefs. Outside of work, she was even more amazing, from her beautiful garden to whipping up gourmet meals for a crowd with ease. She was a friend, a mentor, and to me, strength personified. My life is forever richer having known Lisa. She will be greatly missed.
Krystal Murphy says
My heart goes out to Mrs. Pena’s entire family, she has affected me so much in my life and I cannot imagine your sorrow. Mrs. Pena was my favorite teacher, grades 1-3 in the small school of Sylvanite. I remember vividly how beautiful and calm she was as she was pregnant with Analiese. She wore a shirt that said Baby with an arrow pointing to her belly and as she would read aloud to the entire class, I just marveled at the beauty of motherhood and her grace in all situations. I believe I even gave Analiese my baby blanket because I was so in awe. I have picked up more than I know from being her student than I know, I am now an art teacher pursuing my Master’s in Counseling, and working with at-risk students. My students describe me as compassionate, non-judgmental, open-minded, and they love me as I loved Lisa. As I connected with her through FaceBook as an adult, I realized that we also share a passion for protecting the environment, common spiritual beliefs, and for seeing all children as equal and deserving of receiving the best care, education and quality of life. Mrs. Pena will always be a part of me, a part of how I teach, and a part of how I view, respect and appreciate life. I am very sorry for all the pain that her family is feeling now, my love goes to you all. Mrs. Pena, I love you and thank you for your dedication because you improved this world in so many ways.
Bonnie Adee says
Children with mental health needs in the Helena area have lost a tireless champion. In her job with the Children’s Mental Health Bureau, Lisa advocated for the resources and services needed by struggling families and vulnerable youth. Lisa pushed herself and everyone around her to deliver the best services possible to these families. In the workplace I will miss her thougthful challenges, high energy, and willingess to take initiative and volunteer to get things done. My prayers are with her family, friends, co-workers and clients as we all cope with the loss of this amazing person.
Autumn Biggins says
My deepest sympathies go out to Mrs. Pena’s entire family; and Ashley, Amber and Annaliese in particular. I had Mrs. Pena for a teacher in 6th grade and always appreciated her encouragement of alternative class presentations. She touched a lot of people and I hope that comforts you in this time of grief.
Patti Sorensen says
Words cannot express how truly sorry I am to Lisa’s family, coworkers and friends. If you were one of Lisa’s friends-there wasn’t anything that she wouldn’t do for you. I was lucky enough to be one of those friends. She was an advocate for children and how much potential each child held. She will be deeply missed. On a clear night you might take a child or friend or loved one out and look up to the stars. Know that there is one special star shining down upon you. Smile. It’s Lisa.
Jill Henry says
Having the chance to work with Lisa was a great experience. Whenever my phone would ring and her name would pop up on caller ID, I immediately would think, “wow, I was just getting ready to call her.” Her work on behalf of children, and her hopes to make life better for those with mental health issues was tireless and inspirational. Sharing stories with her, and brainstorming ideas of how to work with certain clients in the best possible way are some of the things I will miss most. She truly had a compassion for the children we work with, and her continual efforts to make the system more functional for families will be long remembered and greatly missed. Lisa always spoke so fondly of her family, that I know she i watching down on each and every one of you with great pride, and peace. God bless.
Bobbie (Hansen) Marcy says
My heartfelt condolences go out to Lisa’s family and friends. There will surely be a huge void in this world without her. I was lucky to call Lisa my friend, and even luckier to have her call me “friend”. I remember the bowl garden she gave me upon my marriage, those plants flourished for years. She also made me a beautifl baby quilt for the birth of my first son- whenever I see it I think of Lisa. Even then, in our late teens/early twenties, Lisa had already developed the qualities that made her so very special: Kindness, Loving, Insightful, Caring. I will miss her.
Peggy Jo Benton says
Hello Lisa’s family – All you girls were so important in her life. She was so proud of everything you did. In reading the above entries, I know how important she was in all her student and fellow workers’ lives as well. I am one of her first cousins, and I had the opportunity to help her with her planning for our moms’ shared birthdays. What a great time we all had, thank you Lisa. One of the favorite memories I have is when my youngest was small – about 16 years ago. She had terrible itching and pain from chicken pox and couldn’t sleep. After no success with baking soda baths, I scooped her up, put her in the car and started driving at around 3:30 in the morning……nothing else would put her to sleep. When she finally went to sleep, we were in Seeley Lake (from Butte) at a coffee shop. I called Lisa and she led me to their home where she watched Kelly as I slept……so nice. Many a crazy not found hike with a complete loop around the other side of Canyon Ferry, nearness to bear on the Refrigerator Canyon hike, and a couple trips to Seattle are also up there, along with painting class…………she was such a great person and friend. I will miss her giggle and thoughtfulness.
Cindy Carlson says
When I think of Lisa I think of peace, smiles, love, kindness and caring. She cared for all she knew and we will miss her deeply.
Peggy Rich Cahoon says
Lisa was a wonderful friend, teacher and inspiration to so many. I had the chance to know her and share time as our children shared grade, sports and time. She also taught my children and left them better people because of time spent with them. Her creative cooking will be remembered by many guests at our family business The Rich Ranch. What a blessing to hve known you..
Karen says
Lisa always had a smile on her face and truly enjoyed life. I worked with her at Shodair and witnessed her dedication and advocacy for kids. She was thoughtful and compassionate to patients as well as staff. She often spoke of her grandchildren and also her dogs 🙂 She was an amazing soul and a wish peace to her family.
Kelly Rich says
Lisa was an inspiring teacher in school as well as in the kitchen. I had the amazing opportunity to work with her at my family’s ranch in the kitchen. I was always amazed at her grace in the kitchen. She would start several dishes at once and walk around adding ingredients into each pot, not measuring a single one, and the meal would turn out amazing! When I tried her homemade Caesar dressing i immediately ask for the recipe. When she handed it to me I laughed at the pinches, dashes, and abouts in front of each ingredient. It was then I discovered that the best cooks never measure. they pinch and dash until it tastes just right. She played a huge role in my love of cooking today! Thank you Lisa for all you taught me! You will be missed by many!
John and Fran Hebnes says
We were saddened to hear of Lisa’s passing. Our hearts go out to Amber,, Annaliese, and Ashleigh and their families especially. May she rest in peace.
Stephanie Luehr says
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Lisa’s passing. She was so full of life and passionate about her work with children who have Mental Health needs. She brought all her wonderful teaching/ counseling/ raising children experiences to this second career. I will miss her smiling face and her wonderful counsel.
Pat Knowles says
To all of Lisa’s family we extend our sincere sympathy. Now Lisa has reached her final goal to be with God!
Laura Sedler says
I knew Lisa all those many years ago when she began her teaching career at our little rural school of Sylvanite in the Yaak. She was young, energetic, a new Mother, and full of life, as she tackled a 1 – 8 grade challenge. During her years there she taught my son, Zach Hawkins, as well as the sons and daughters of all my neighbors. In such a small and isolated community, a teacher is more than just a teacher, and Lisa, Bill and the girls were an important part of that community for those four years, making a strong impact on many young students.
In later years, my son Zach, who became an educator himself, would report to me that he had met up with Lisa at a conference or meeting, and that she continued to shine and inspire.
What a tragedy for her family, to lose her so soon. My heart goes out to her daughters, grandchildren, and all who knew and loved her. Laura Sedler and Family.
Bev Mitchell says
I met Lisa at the wraparound trainings and we talked about counselingand psychology services and also about her new home, her family and grandchildren. She loved, loved her home she found in the valley and her yard and flowers. She described where she lived and I knew the house. Whenever I drove past her home I would think about her and how pleased she was to be living in that home. I saw her many friends helping her sandbag when the waters were high in the valley. She talked to me about Seeley Swan and what she had done there. She said she was so happy to be living in Helena. She was an outreaching person who gave to others and she will be missed.
Ron Benton says
Lisa touched the lives of so many children and her influence will remain forever with all of her students and people who were fortunate enough to have known her. Lisa has left a legacy that most people can only aspire to. It is difficult and painful when tragedy strikes but Lisa lives on in all of the hearts and memories of those who knew her.
Sharon Odden says
The news of Lisa’s sudden passing was a shock and has saddened me greatly. I had the pleasure of working with Lisa as part of the CMHB until my retirement in April. Lisa was and energetic and passionate advocate for the children and families with whom she worked. She will be missed by them as well as all of us who had the pleasure of knowing her. My heart goes out to her children and grandchildren as she was taken from their lives all too soon. Praying for peace and acceptance for you all.
Julie Titchbourne says
Lisa lived a simple and full life and left the world a better place for having been here. She often demonstrated her love and regard to those around her and I for one, aspire to be a better person for having known her. I will miss most her fine intellect, quick wit and servant leadership. May her quiet kindnesses resonate within us as we mourn…and accept.
Bobbi Nelson Wilson says
Lisa was the big sister I never had. She put up with the antics of a younger sister and best friend. Lisa was such a kind person, quiet but everything she did, she did with grace. Lisa changed the lives of all the students she came in contact with. Students who are now professionsals sharing with even moe young people. Lisa’s legacy will live on in her daughter’s and grandchildren. My heart goes out to all her family. Rest in the arms of God and your dad and one day you will be reunited with your family. May God grant your loved ones the peace and understanding to continue your good works on the earth.
Laura Narum says
Lisa was such a wonderful person and touched the lives of many. I had the privilege of working with Lisa and witnessing her dedication to the work that she did. She will be missed greatly. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and to all that had the opportunity of knowing her.
Marilyn & Dennis Clark says
We are so sorry for the loss of Lisa, both for her family and those she served. We did not know Lisa well, but she tried to help us with our children through her work in the Mental Health Bureau. We found her to be responsive, kind, empathetic and helpful. We are so shocked at her sudden passing-we were working with her only a couple of months ago. Her passing is a loss to a lot of children and parents in this area. We have her children and grandchildren in our prayers. God watch over you Lisa!
Zach Hawkins says
Lisa was my teacher at Sylvanite School from 2nd through 5th grade. I have a lot of memories and stories about her, but there are two that I remember vividly and remind me of what an amazing educator she was.
When I was a second grader, I had to get a 100% on the phonics test that all students had to master before being exempt from taking. For whatever reason, I was the last 2nd grader to earn the requisite 100% and had to keep taking the test. I remember vividly one day having to take the test when all my peers didn’t. I was so upset, I broke down crying. I can still see my paper smearing as I cried on my desk. Of course I didn’t get off the hook and had to learn my phonics to perfection just like everyone else. So many lessons there as I look back on it: You have to keep trying until you are successful, Life isn’t always fair, Only your best effort will do in matters of great importance, Self pity will get you nowhere etc….
Fast forward to 5th grade and now Mrs. Pena and I were great pals. I remember we had a visitor one day who was talking with her in the school while everyone was outside at recess. For some reason, I was inside and listening to their conversation. She managed to work into the conversation that I was the best student in the school. The pride I felt at that moment was immeasurable. I would have run through a brick wall for her after that. She may have told all her students that when nobody else was around, but that’s why they all wanted to achieve great things for her.
It was such a joy when our paths crossed a few years ago. I enjoyed working with her on a limited basis and especially seeing her at a soccer game last spring when her grandson’s team was playing my son’s team. As an adult, I could appreciate how amazingly fullfilling her life was and how much she enjoyed the important things in life. I cherish all my memories of her and regret that there will be no more.
Thank You Lisa, for all you did for me and so many others. The world is a wiser, more peaceful place for your efforts
Steve & Gayle Shirley says
We were so sorry to hear of Lisa’s passing. We feel lucky to have known her. She left the world a better place.
Gary Mason says
I am so sorry to hear of Lisa’s passing. It has been many years since we have seen or spoke to one another. Our lives have taken us in different directions. I remember Rachel & Will’s big sister and the days of our youth running around east Eureka & those times spent with the families of St Michaels church. The sledding party’s, Christmas caroling, confirmation classes, etc. with the Schroeder’s, Mason’s, Peterson’s, Gwynn’s & Giibbons’ kids. Very fond memories of days gone by. My heart goes out to her entire family & May God Bless you all.
Marti Bushfield says
Sending my condolences to the Schroeder family. Lisa was a very special person.
She was a good friend to my younger sister, Jeanne, having the same birthday.
Our family lived on a ranch in Eureka & I remember Lisa coming to visit.
She will always have a special place in her family & all her friends hearts.
Lisa will truly be missed.
Sincerely, Marti Brinton Bushfield
Cheryl Lewis says
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Annaliese, Amber and Ashleigh. Your mom was indeed a very special lady, and I know you will miss her deeply. Many of us here in Seeley Lake have fond memories of her, so I know I speak for a lot of community members here when I say she will be sorely missed, but remembered with love.
Bernie Madinger says
Lisa was a wonderful teacher and mother of my daughter’s good friend, Ashleigh. I remember going to a parent/teacher conference for my son, Abe, and I was amazed that she placed him in the corner of the room, just to give him room to walk around his desk, when he couldn’t sit still. That way he wouldn’t disturb other students but gave him the freedom to walk off some of his excess energy! We sometimes took road trips together to watch our daughters play basketball. I thoroughly enjoyed our time together. Lisa loved her family and was very proud of them. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Lindsey Koppen says
Mrs Pena was one of the very best teachers I ever had. I always looked forward to her teaching, she always had a smile on her face and she always challenged her students in such a positive way. I am so grateful for getting to have her as my teacher and I will never forget the role she played in my life. Thank you Mrs Pena! You will be missed by so many.
Terri Weiler says
To Lisa’s family –
I was so sorry to learn of your loss today. I knew your mom WAY BACK WHEN (I was her college roommate at Carroll College so many years ago). Though our physical paths didn’t cross often, we did manage to stay in touch all these years. Every Christmas card she wrote was filled of love and admiration for her girls and now her grandchildren. I know you will miss her presence very much. In addition to being a marvelous mom and grandmother, she was an incredible friend.