Our wife, mother, daughter and friend Jeanene Tjaden grew her wings and went to be with her lord on Sunday January 23, 2022. Born in Fontana, California she grew up spending a lot of her time with her grandparents. Her family moved up to Montana when Jeanene was 12 years old and made a home in Frenchtown. She spent her young school years in Missoula. Going to college at the University of Montana for general studies and dance. A few years later, Jeanene was introduced to FedEx and made a career of it. Working in several different stations in Montana, she was able to meet a lot of great people and make new family friends. In the early 90’s, Jeanene moved to Great Falls where she met her first husband Pete working at FedEx. Married, they had a baby girl named Jayde. Over a few years, Jeanene moved to Helena where her life was meant to be.
On Jeanene’s 40th birthday she met her love, Chad. Chad and Jeanene married in 2004. Having a wonderful life together with their girls Jayde and Sydnee. Spending their time together riding side by sides, in the mountains and as much time in Lincoln with their Dad Steve. They were looking forward to celebrating their 18th Anniversary together this year.
In 2019, Jeanene was ready to meet new challenges and retired from FedEx Corporation. In her 26 years, she was awarded many safe driving awards and her last was the FedEx Ground Humanitarian Award.
Jeanene spent most of her time with family and friends. Her love was to shop for antiques and find personal gifts for her loved ones. She always would find time to take photos of wildlife, wildflowers and sunsets. She loved working with flowers with her daughter. Hiking and exploring new places with friends. Jeanene’s drive in life was to help everyone in need. It didn’t matter where she was, she held her hand out for those that needed her the most. Come Sunday, Jeanene would be in church or listening to words of God. Always excited to share a message that was not only helping her but others around her. Jeanene was a strong-willed woman with a laugh and smile that would fill the room. Her hugs were calming and genuine. And had love for everyone especially her family.
Jeanene is survived by her husband Chad Tjaden, daughters Jayde Annau and Sydnee Tjaden; Father Steve Tjaden, Brother Herbert (Nikki) Ferguson Jr. and nephew Charlie; Great Aunt Ruby Merritt.
Jeanene was preceded in death by grandparents, Fred and Irene Nelson; parents Herbert and Jeanie Ferguson; great uncles Ray Gehring and Kenneth Nelson. As well as many cherished extended family and friends.
The family wishes to thank friends and family for all of the love and support. Jeanene will be missed by all in our community. She touched the hearts and lives of many, and she will be surely missed.
There will be a funeral held at the Mount Helena Community Church on Friday February 4th , 2022 at 11am. Located at 1710 National Ave in Helena, MT. Followed by a reception, and graveside service that will be held at Forestvale Cemetery, 490 Forestvale Rd., in Helena, MT at 1:30pm.
Contributions in memory of Jeanene can be made to the Mount Helena Community Church (mounthelena.org)
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11 a.m.
Friday February 4, 2022
Mount Helena Community Church
1710 National Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Funeral Service
Friday February 4, 2022
The Gateway Center
1710 National Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial
Approximately 1:30 p.m.
Friday February 4, 2022
Forestvale Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11 a.m.
Friday February 4, 2022
Mount Helena Community Church
1710 National Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Funeral Service
Friday February 4, 2022
The Gateway Center
1710 National Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial
Approximately 1:30 p.m.
Friday February 4, 2022
Forestvale Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
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Jennie Spragg says
Jeanene was such a brilliant light that will be missed immensely. She always had a smile on her face and something to tell me about her time with her family! My heart is so broken for her family!
Susan Schieno says
Jeanene had this sparkle in her eye and infectious beautiful smile. She always always lent a helping hand to everyone she knew. My heart is so heavy to lose such a dear friend whom always kept in touch. Miss you so much dear friend. Until we meet again. An Angel has her wings. My thoughts and prayers to Chad, and family.
Victoria Carranza says
Jeanene was a wonderful friend for 32 years. I will miss her so much. She touched so many people’s lives in such a positive way. Not many people can do that. She was always there for me,
Nancy & Dave Duel says
Jeanne You were such a beautiful spirit! Fly high honey take care of your family from above! They are going to miss you immensely! You are a wonderful person and I feel so bad for your family! We Love you and you are going to be greatly missed! 💕 Love You Nancy & Dave Duel
Steve and Jackie Sampson says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. She was a wonderful lady.
Denise & Jim Backstrom says
Oh Chad we’re so sorry to hear about Jeanene. You and your family are in our thoughts & prayers.
Robin Frey says
I met Jeanene over 25 years ago in Great Falls and always thought she was an amazing friend! We had a lot of good laugh those many years ago! When I moved to Helena we crossed paths again and I was so happy to see her smiling face! She was always so upbeat, fun and full of love! She had the ability to make everyone and anyone feel special and loved. Jeanene treated everyone with respect and kindness. I regret not reaching out to her more often and bringing more happiness into her life like she did for everyone else. She was an amazing friend. I will surely miss her smiling face!
Stormie says
Met this beautiful lady when she 1st moved to Helena needing day care, we became friends immediately, her contagious Love for Life her beautiful smile her go get it attitude will be truly missed. Jeanne you are now flying with the angels, as you were definitely an angel here on Earth with all of us.miss you…. Stormie
Leesa says
She was a beautiful lady inside and out! She was always smiling and happy every time I saw her and I know she will be sorely missed! May you Rest In Peace and love Jeanine!
Randy Hoag says
Chad and Family, I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Jeanene was one of the most helpful people I’ve ever had the chance to be around. Her “go get it” attitude and willingness to do anything for anyone she came into contact with is what I will remember most. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Michelle & Peter Van Nice says
We are so very sorry to hear of Jeanene’s passing. Jeanene was truly a beautiful person both inside and out – keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Michelle and Peter Van Nice
Yvette Worman says
Jeanene was a wonderful soul who brightened the day for everyone she talked to. A rare quality, indeed.
Lauren Kuntz says
Chad,
Jeanene was truly a special woman with such a bright spirit. You could feel her love just by standing near her. Even of you had just met her she had a way of making you feel like the most important person. She was a great example to all of how to love all of those around us and make the world a better place. We will be sending prayers for you and your family. Love Lauren and Kasey Kuntz.
Dana says
I am so shocked and heartbroken to hear that my dear friend Jeanene has passed. My husband and I were wondering why we hadn’t heard from her, and found out on Facebook that she was gone😢. All the memories of us together in high school and college just came rushing back and it’s just overwhelming to think she is gone. She was such a sweet sweet friend with such a big heart and a beautiful smile. She had a wonderful bright outlook on life and always made you feel special. My heart and prayers go out to Jeanene’s family, especially Chad and Jayde. I will miss you so much Jeanene. God will take good care of you, love you girl💜