Lisa Ann Verzani 44, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, and friend passed away October 10, 2017 after a courageous battle with Ovarian Cancer.
Lisa was born December 1, 1972 in Des Moines, Iowa to Frederick and Patricia Verzani. She spent her childhood in Helena where she graduated from Capital High School in 1991 and graduated from Gonzaga University with a Bachelor of Art Degree in 1995.
Lisa returned to Helena where she began a career working as a director for the Helena Real Estate Assoc. She later went to work for Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her newfound passion with fly fishing found her at Guide School in Idaho on the Henry’s Fork. Cross Currents was a natural fit where she joined the team as an Associate and Fishing Guide. Lisa’s passion and love for art and education flourished. Working with children led her to teaching in the Helena and East Helena School Districts. She became a dedicated substitute teacher, spending the past 10 years mostly with the East Helena District.
Lisa was diagnosed in March of 2010 with Ovarian Cancer. Her battle was fought with tenacity, positivity, and perseverance. She had a “never give up” attitude to live life to the fullest. Travels and pilgrimages overseas, trips to visit friends and family became her everyday joy.
Lisa’s favorite pastimes included spending time at Archie Bray where she found theraputic release creating beautiful pieces of pottery. Rooting on the beloved ZAGS with the Helena Chapter and fellow alumni, she missed very few games. Her love of the Missouri River and fishing found her the family “Trout Slayer”.
Lisa was active in the 4-H program, served on the board of the Pat Barnes Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Our Lady of the Valley Pastoral Council, was a member of the Cursillo Community and served as President of the Ovarian Cancer Foundation.
Lisa is preceded in death by Grandparents: Frances and Vernon Viergutz, Alphonse and Glaydella Verzani. Lisa is survived by her parents Fred and Pat Verzani, brother Don (Patty) Verzani of Portland, OR, sister Jenny (Mike) Wilcynski of Big Sky, MT, nephews Kevin and Thomas, nieces Josie, Maddie, Mia and her emotional support dog Sophie, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
A Viewing will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 15th at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. Rosary will be prayed at 6:15 p.m. on Sunday, October 15th at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 1502 Shirley Road, Helena. A Vigil will follow the Rosary at 7:00 p.m. at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church. A Funeral Mass will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, October 16th at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church. Rite of Committal will follow Mass at Resurrection Cemetery. A reception will follow the Rite of Committal in the social hall of the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Archie Bray Foundation, 2915 Country Club Ave, Helena, MT 59602, or to Camp Mak-A-Dream, P.O. Box 1450, Missoula, MT 59806, or to Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 1502 Shirley Rd, Helena, MT 59602. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory Lisa.
Special thanks to Dr. Weiner and entire Oncology nursing staff at St. Peters Hospital for their amazing care for Lisa these past 7 ½ years.
As Lisa would say, Good-bye, Best Fishes to all.
Service Schedule
Viewing
12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday October 15, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Rosary
6:15 p.m.
Sunday October 15, 2017
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
1502 Shirley Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Vigil
7:00 p.m.
Sunday October 15, 2017
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
1502 Shirley Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Mass
1:30 p.m.
Monday October 16, 2017
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Churhc
1502 Shirley Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Rite of Committal
Following mass
Monday October 16, 2017
Resurrection Cemetery
North Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Viewing
12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday October 15, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Rosary
6:15 p.m.
Sunday October 15, 2017
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
1502 Shirley Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Vigil
7:00 p.m.
Sunday October 15, 2017
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
1502 Shirley Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Mass
1:30 p.m.
Monday October 16, 2017
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Churhc
1502 Shirley Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Rite of Committal
Following mass
Monday October 16, 2017
Resurrection Cemetery
North Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Share
George Lane says
Fred and family,
I am so sadden at the passing of Lisa. I got to know her from the many times I judged her 4H photography at the fair. She was then as she always was a sweet gentle soul. I will miss her smile and our talks about fly fishing. RIP little one.
Tony duvernay says
Pat, Fred and family,
Know that you all are in my prayers. Only God can comfort and begin to fill deep sorrow that you are experiencing at Lisa’s death. She was a remarkable young woman, and touched many lives with her loving smile, joyful spirit, and kind heart. Indeed, she is missed.
Troy and Jenifer Sampson says
Fred, Pat, and Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Lisa was an amazing person who filled the room with her presents and had everyone in the room smiling. She will be dearly missed.
Carol Bridge says
To Lisa’s family, My heartfelt condolences go to you at this time. Lisa was a true inspiration to all during her journey with cancer and I am sure other aspects of life. She was not a bit shy sharing her thoughts and feelings. The night sky will be brighter as she looks after her family now and forever. Memories of her will be with you forever. Blessings, Love and Light Carol Bridge, Volunteer CTC
Jimmy Wollenberg says
Pat, Fred and Family,
My deepest, deepest condolences. Lisa will never be far, she will live in your hearts forever. Memories of our loved ones never leave us, Lisa will always continue to put a smile on your face. In this most difficult of times my thoughts are with you all.
Deborah Viergutz says
As I have read the many people commenting on Lisa’s passing, I get the feeling that Lisa was born to help others..be it her students, her friends, her sisters in teal warriors or her family (which I’m proud to be a part of as her Aunt) She helped so many people in So many ways….Lisa touched many lives, and by doing so will always be remembered.
..She taught us all to love each day and to greet adversity with a smile..to Never give up…to embrace the beauty in nature, and in others…she was here to teach us, and she taught us well…I Love you, Sweet Lisa.
Sharon and Gary Cross says
Pat, Fred and family,
Praying for peace and strength as you go through this difficult time of grieving. May the love and memories of Lisa, that you will carry forever in your hearts, give you strength to walk through this time of sorrow.
We are truly honoured to have known Lisa. She was a remarkable woman . Rest in peace Lisa.
Tom and Connie Marcotte says
Pat, Fred, and family, Our deepest sympathy to your family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Gail Mckinnon, Greg Johnson & family says
What an incredible woman your daughter was & is! She fought over & over & kept on going. Lisa was , is & always will be, such an inspiration to all who knew her & even to those who haven’t yet heard her story. Words don’t convey the sorrow wrapped up in losing someone you love dearly. You will always miss her & love her. You were & are such incredible parents, people yourselves. What a gift from God that you had Lisa & she had you for your family. May God Hold you in the Palm of His Hand.
Michelle Flemings and Family says
Lisa, I will miss you. I will miss your bright smile, positive attitude, and enduring strength. I will miss seeing your green explorer driving around town:”Fish Girl!” You were an awesome teacher, and great with my kids! You made this world a better place…you really did. Although it’s been a while since I saw you last, you would often cross my mind and I hoped that you were doing well. You lived a great and full life and were an inspiration to us all. I know that you have more work to do and life to live from the other side, and I know that I will see you again! PS-I hope that the fishing is even better there!
sheila martin says
My heart aches for you all. I cannot understand the strength and faith you have lived in these last years, only God truly knows. What an amazing example you are to all believers.
Cheri Long says
Lisa was a beautiful, positive light in any room. She brought joy to others, and shared her journey with so many. She will be missed. You are all in my prayers as you navigate through your loss.
Annie Diess says
Dear Pat and Fred –
We feel blessed to have met Lisa. She was so brave and always had a smile for others. Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. We love you guys!
Steve, Annie, Abby and Max Diess
Mary and Ed McGuinness says
Pat, Fred and Family,
Lisa’s radiant smile, laugh and enthusiasm will be missed. They were a gift to anyone whose life she touched. During Lisa’s last seven years, she was an example of accepting in life whatever comes your way and meeting it with courage and the best you have to give. The miracle you got was a daughter, a beautiful woman of faith, who was able to deal bravely with cancer. Lisa will always be with us. We pray for you to have strength and be comforted by your faith. We love you. In deepest sympathy…Mary and Ed
Brenda Strekall says
God has you safe now, my friend….and Heaven is blessed with your smile! I’m grateful for knowing you and sharing our faith…..whenever I think of Cursillo, I will think of you! We celebrate your life, and trust that you are happy and completely healthy in Paradise.
Sending love, Brenda Strekall
Tom and Judy Rolfe says
Fred and Pat,
Please know we are thinking of you at this very difficult time. Lisa brought a sparkle wherever she went, she will certainly be missed by her family and many friends. You are in our hearts and prayers.
Jeannie and Pat Hurley says
I got to know Lisa when she worked in the office as a student at CRA. I will always remember her wonderful smile and hugely positive attitude. As the years went by, no matter where I saw Lisa, she always had a hug and a smile to give. I am blessed to have known this amazing young lady. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with the Verzani Family.
Love and prayers to all of you.
Terri Kunz says
A fine example of light unto the world, a servant to others. What a blessing to know Lisa. To see her around town was uplifting for me as she was always POSITIVE. The pain is real for all of you but the gift she gave lasts forever.
Rest Lisa…God’s arms are stretched out for you to sleep.
James 1: 1-12 Blessed is the one who perservers under trial, because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord promised.
Hugs and love to all of you, T
Rick and Betti Hill says
Fred and Pat, we are so very sorry that Lisa’s long cancer battle has come to an end. What a fighter she has been through this war. And still a breath of fresh air all the time. Truly a sweet beacon and we are so thankful to have known her. Your family is in our hearts and prayers. Rick and Betti
Ann Centis says
Fred and Pat,
We are praying for you and sending you lots of peace, love and comfort during this difficult time. We will miss Lisa – her energy, positive outlook and creativity were so inspiring! Our children have wonderful memories fishing with her and doing endless arts and crafts with her – we’ll never forget the rock and railroad tie painting! We have lots of Lisa’s work around our house, including a gravy/sauce boat that we use almost every weekend for pancake syrup! Lisa will forever be in our hearts and we look forward to seeing her again in heaven some day – we have no doubt she is up there right now brightening everyone’s spirits around her!
We love you! Ann, Rob, Olivia, James, Ava & Luci XOXO
Karen Goldsberry says
I am so sorry. Lisa was a phenomenal person. Her smile could light up a room and her strength was unbelievable. I am so inspired by Lisa and how she never questioned her faith. I had the honor to work with Lisa in EH and my children had her as a sub many times. She was loved by many and will be missed. My prayers and thoughts are with your family.
Shirley Cole says
Fred, Pat and family. My deepest sympathy to you at the passing of your beautiful daughter. I have very fond memories when she helped me with getting some prizes for our Adoption Celebrations and she was always giving me suggestions which I always took to. God bless you all and Lisa, I am sure God has you in the palm of his hand and telling you “Welcome sweet Lisa, you have done good my beautiful servant.” It is very hard to lose a child regardless of their age. I know and I pray God will grand you peace when it is time.
Jim and Dolores Centis says
To the family all…though we never had the pleasure of meeting Lisa, we heard so many stories about her from Don and her parents whenever we shared occasions in OR when we would visit from CA. Praying especially for you , her dear parents. With love and sympathy, Jim and Dolores (Rob’s parents)
Diana Stewart says
To the family… Lisa was a ray of light. She was an encouragement to all to never give up. I looked up to her with her fight with cancer. While I feel a lot of people would give up she stood up to it. She was a lion roaring in the face of this disease. She will be greatly missed!
ROGER HAGAN says
Fred and Pat, my prayers are with you at this difficult time. May your memories sustain you in the future.
Sue and Jeff Miller says
Fred Pat and family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss but relieved to know Lisa is at peace. We have so many memories from our brief acquaintance with Lisa and we will miss her. She showed us how to be brave and to hold a positive attitude. You were so fortunate to have her in your family and she was so fortunate to have a loving and caring family who shared her life and provided loving care during her illness.
You are in our thoughts. We will continue to “light a candle” and keep you and Lisa in our thoughts through our trip in Europe.
Lone Mountain Land Company says
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family during this time of loss.
From everyone at LMLC
Theresa and Marc Racicot says
Dear Verzani family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you as you say goodbye to Lisa. What a courageous wonderful woman who blessed all who knew her. I always remember her beautiful smile when we would see her at church. I hope you all find peace in your wonderful memories in the days to come.
Marc and Theresa Racicot
Bridget and Chuck Holland says
Fred, Pat and family
So sorry to hear about Lisa. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Chuck, Bridget and Holland family
Debbie Kralicek says
I will always remember Lisa’s smile and her enthusiasm for life. She touched the hearts of so many. I am most thankful for the conversations she had with my grandson at EVMS. She really made a difference in the life of those kids.
Her laughter and the twinkle in her eyes she talked about her family and especially her siblings and of course both of you. What amazing parents she always said.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Doug & Deb Kralicek