On December 11, 2023, the Helena area lost Rick Pyfer, a titan of the community. Rick passed away surrounded by his immediate family at the University of Utah Hospital in Salt Lake City, from complications arising from sepsis following an unidentified infection.
Rick was born in Helena in 1952, to S. Clark Pyfer and Mary (Sasek) Pyfer, who raised Rick and his three brothers (Don, Bob, and Bill) in East Helena. Rick cherished his idyllic childhood in East Helena, playing baseball and other sports at the Smelterite and City parks, ice skating at the rink across from the Pyfer family home on Pacific Street, riding bikes, taking piano and accordion lessons, fishing and floating the Prickly Pear Creek, sledding down the railroad track hill, cooling off at the wading pool behind the war veterans monument at the Main Street park, building forts with refrigerator and washing machine boxes discarded by Cummings Electric, and exploring downtown businesses such as the East Helena Drug Store, Lucky’s, and Smith’s where he ate Mary Smith’s delicious burgers while sipping cherry cokes. Rick also fondly recalled the VFW-sponsored events such as youth square dances at the Fire Hall, bicycle races on Main Street, Easter egg hunts in City Park, the annual skating party, and picnics at the Crystal Creek picnic area – during which Charley Pride would sing, and after which Rick and other kids would collect the bottles for the lucrative 2-cent recycling refund.
During Rick’s formative years, East Helena was something of a Little Slovenia, with numerous Eastern European immigrants coming to work in the ASARCO lead smelter. His mother, Mary Sasek Pyfer, was born to Catholic immigrants who lived four doors down on Pacific Street. Rick delighted in and immersed himself in the culture, particularly with his accordion playing, and made three trips to Slovenia with family over the course of his life.
When Rick was nine years old, the Pyfer family was selected as the All American Family to represent Montana in the Kiwanis Club’s National All American Family competition. Clark, Mary, Don, Bob, Rick, and Bill journeyed to the big event in Florida with high hopes. Unfortunately, table manners were part of the criteria, and the Pyfers lost miserably.
Rick attended St. Ann’s Catholic Grade School in East Helena through Grade 8, Helena Catholic Central High School through Grade 11, and upon closure of Helena Catholic Central High School transferred with his classmates to Helena High School, where he graduated in 1970. During his grade school days, Rick was busy with school plays, book fairs, and serving as an altar boy. During his high school years, Rick served as President of his freshman and sophomore classes and as Governor of Montana Key Clubs, received the Montana State Elks’ Leadership Award, and competed in the National Forensics League (earning a Ruby). Rick also played varsity football (quarterback, safety, punt returner) and the organ for the rock bands Classified Information and The Dark Side (always lamenting that he was not allowed a microphone).
Upon graduation from high school, Rick attended the University of Notre Dame, where he majored in Government and International Studies. He loved sharing the story about how he arrived at Notre Dame after freshman orientation due to his brother Bob’s wedding; upon arrival he noticed his new roommates had moved all his furniture out of the room and their first words to him were, “Oh, he came.” Their lack of enthusiasm was quickly replaced by bonds of friendship that would last a lifetime. At Notre Dame, Rick served on the Hall Presidents’ Council as President of Zahm Hall and was Charter President of the Notre Dame Circle K Service Club. Rick continued to entertain at Notre Dame, playing the accordion and putting on shows as the “Ruski Ski Instructor” while skiing down indoor stairs. He graduated with honors in his major.
Shortly after graduation from Notre Dame, Rick married Leanne Jacques, his high school sweetheart, and moved to Washington, DC, to work as a congressional staffer for Dick Schoup. He then attended and graduated from Gonzaga University in Spokane with a Masters of Business Administration in 1976. While in Spokane he also worked as a night watchman at a bank and welcomed his first child, Sara. The family thereafter moved to Missoula where he received his juris doctorate from the University of Montana School of Law in 1979.
In 1980, Rick moved back to Helena, had his second child (Chris), and joined the law firm of Small, Hatch & Doubek (now Doubek, Pyfer, Storrar), where he served for decades as a passionate advocate for those who sought advice, suffered injuries, and needed a hero.
Separate from his professional work, many in the Helena area know and will remember Rick for his dedication and service to the community. Only Rick could keep track of all of the projects and organizations he was involved in, but highlights include serving as President, United Way of Lewis & Clark County; President, Helena YMCA Board of Directors (1986-87; 2005-06); President, Helena Kiwanis Club; President, Western Montana Catholic Foundation Board of Directors; President, Notre Dame Club of Western Montana; President, Helena Jaycees Club Board Member, Exploration Works; Knights of Columbus; Helena Dioceses Board of Directors; East Helena Historical Society Advisor; Helena Red Coats Ambassador; Big Brother, Big Brothers/Big Sisters (Helena) since 1969 (with three different “Littles” over the years). Rick also helped establish the “Prickly Pear Fireworks” organization to fundraise for the now world-renowned East Helena firework show.
Rick galvanized so many people in the Helena area to financially support countless causes and organizations. He was the dynamic, never-give-up hub by which great projects succeeded. But Rick was never one to sit around and serve merely at the top level; he was also the guy on the ground serving steak sandwiches, ringing the bells, spending countless hours being the volunteer that people relied on. Amidst his impressive commitment to a wide range of community needs, providing opportunities and positive experiences for youth was at the forefront of his life. He truly made his Little Brothers part of his family, he took those with less to do special things they did not have the means to do themselves, and even lent his own home to a young family in need.
Not only did Rick give his time and money to too many organizations and people in the community to name, he also generously gave his time and support to everyone he befriended – bringing his big-hearted, vibrant spirit to local sporting and cultural events and community centers. Rick had a great love for others and wanted to do all he could to make others happy and more comfortable in their lives, visiting and playing for the elderly and more generally brightening any party he might be invited to. He has entertained people at hundreds of events and gatherings by singing and playing his accordion. Some Rick Pyfer classics include Oj Maricka Pegla, Beer Barrel Polka, Born to be Wild, the Notre Dame Fight Song, and When the Saints Go Marching In.
When his close friend from childhood, Mike Van Diest, became the head football coach of the Carroll College Saints, Rick vigorously supported the team and transformed into the “Carroll Crazy” – dressing up for games, playing the accordion, and doing all he could to excite the crowd to support the team. When Carroll won its first NAIA football championship in 2002, Rick cheered so hard that he tore his achilles tendon. It was the only injury of the game. He did not regret it for a second.
Recently retired, Rick spent the last few years of his life enjoying winter months golfing and hiking in Arizona, and relaxing at the Pyfer family cabin on Canyon Ferry Lake in the summer.
Rick’s faith was central to his life and he avidly attended mass at Ss. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church in East Helena.
Rick was a devoted father and grandfather, giving so much time and love to his kids Sara and Chris and his grandchildren Betta, Christian, Athen, and Devin. He was quick to write special notes, emails, and texts communicating how much he loved each and every one of them. His grandkids loved having such a fun “Pa” and wish they had more years with him.
It is hard to overstate the impact Rick Pyfer had on the Helena community in ways both big and small. His energy, compassion, love of life, and genuine care for others will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who crossed his path. Rick was preceded in death by his parents Clark & Mary Pyfer and brother Don Pyfer, and is survived by his daughter, Sara Fowler (Paul) and children Lizabetta and Christian of Montana City; his son, Chris (Lynn) Pyfer and children Athen and Devin of Brooklyn, New York; his brothers Bob (Jeanne) Pyfer of Helena and Bill Pyfer of Scottsdale, Arizona; and countless extended family members and dear friends.
Memorial and vigil services will be held at 6 pm on January 4, 2024, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. A Catholic funeral Mass will be held for Rick at 12 pm on January 5, at Ss. Cyril & Methodius Church in East Helena, with a reception and memory-sharing get-together to immediately follow mass at The Kleffner Ranch in East Helena. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to Helena Family YMCA, Helena Food Share, or Ss. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church.
Service Schedule
Vigil
6:00 p.m.
Thursday January 4, 2024
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Mass
12:00 p,m.
Friday January 5, 2024
Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church
120 W Riggs Street
East Helena, Montana 59635
Reception
Following the Funeral Mass
Friday January 5, 2024
The Kleffner Ranch
305 Mt Hwy 518
East Helena, Montana 59635
Service Schedule
Vigil
6:00 p.m.
Thursday January 4, 2024
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Mass
12:00 p,m.
Friday January 5, 2024
Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church
120 W Riggs Street
East Helena, Montana 59635
Reception
Following the Funeral Mass
Friday January 5, 2024
The Kleffner Ranch
305 Mt Hwy 518
East Helena, Montana 59635
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Dick Hausken says
Rick was a fellow classmate in the class of 1970. He was one of the most genuine sincere persons I have ever known. His community involvement started in school and continued throughout his life. I didn’t see him a lot but when I did it felt like talking to an old friend. The community has lost a great citizen
Jan Ryckman says
My heartfelt sympathy to the Pyfer family in the loss of Rick. I worked for Rick for many years and have great memories of his love of life. He was constantly involved in community and it seemed if any group needed a person to do fundraising or contact work, Rick was your guy. He knew everyone! He loved life to the fullest. Sara and Chris, their spouses and the grandchildren were his top priority. Rick was so attentive and supportive of his parents and especially his mom after his dad passed. I loved seeing he and his mom at functions having the best time. He was involved in countless groups and causes as everyone in Helena and East Helena know. He was so deserving of the 2018 philanthropy award and am so happy I got to be there to witness that honor. Rick Pyfer will be so deeply missed ! Rest in peace my Friend!
Melissa and Jeff Sherlock says
Many others have and will speak of Rick’s boundless civic involvement and generosity. I knew Rick for decades, both inside and outside the courtroom. Most know that he was a very successful attorney. Not so many know that Rick was always quietly helping those who could not afford an attorney and whose cases offered not a glimmer of financial gain. He will truly be missed. Peace to his family.
Wes Feist says
Thoughts and prayers to the Pyfer family… He spoke so highly of his kids and family, who were his true love. Rick was one of a kind and an exemplary community servant. His generosity, time, and dedication will be greatly missed and is irreplaceable to the East Helena and Helena communities. May we all learn from, and follow, Rick’s example.
Robert/Terry McAnally says
With shock and sadness, I acknowledge the loss of one of our 1st cousins. As others post their memories of Rick, it reminds me of his dad and mom, Clark and Mary. Rick continued their great love for service and community, with a dose of spirituality. May the hearts of all his friends and family be ministered to by our Creator who loves us all. He will always be missed, but, for me, it is a comfort to know that he is reunited with his family and there was a joyous reunion. I’m Terry Pyfer McAnally, having regrets that we didn’t spend much time together as adult cousins. Blessing to all.
Roy moreno says
I first met Rick when he was my court appointed attorney back in 1983 I also seen him at the YMCA he would go there I believe during his lunch to play basketball he was my wife attorney when she had a lawsuit a carnival ride manufacturer for a unsafe ride the last time I seen him was a few years ago at a cross rival game beteew Capital h Helena High my deepest condolences to his family he will be missed by many RIP Rick
Kelly says
Rick was one of the neatest guys I’ve known. His love of history and family was so admirable. I am saddened to hear of his passing, and hoping for peace and healing for his family. I’m lucky to have known him.
Carlsons says
A fine and remarkably intelligent , giving person, a real gift to Helena and E.Helena not to mention superb in law. Rick the guy always kind, resoectful, & considerate whenever and wherever we connected .A great suppporter of BigBros/BigSis and many other organizations. So admired his love of honor to family and untold sacrificial gifts to msny. He will be sorely missed. Heaven gained a rock star named Rick!
Tanya Hartman says
Rick was an amazing man and such an inspiration for his commitment to his community! I met him at the YMCA when he would come do Business men’s basketball!!!! This is a huge loss and my sympathy goes out to his family and dear friends!
Bob DenHerder says
Rick was always in contact with Luke with so much support. He spent time no matter where he was to come over and greet us and to share prayers for Luke. A true SAINT and will be messed Bob Den Herder
Bill Dolan says
From the Dolan brothers, our deepest condolences to Rick’s family and the Pyfers of East Helena. We have lost another of East Helena’s finest. Rick embodied the best of what it meant to be from East Helena. He never forgot his friends and his East Helena heritage. I’ll never forget his kindness when he sent me a shirt from Notre Dame when I was a young boy. His essay in East Helena’s Prickly Pear Junction captured what it meant to be from East Helena. RIP.
Terry & Ellen Alborn says
Thinking of fun times with Rick over the years. He could always make any event more fun and provide laughs. His musical talent was enjoyed by everyone. May memories provide comfort for all his family. He will definitely be missed by family and friends.
Ted Polette says
The YMCA seems to be a common thread here as that is where I first met Rick also. Friendly and outgoing just scratches the surface of this amazing man. He was so proud of his family and shared news about them whenever we visited. He sponsored my daughters in club volleyball without hesitating when they approached him, and wrote a check for twice the amount that was requested! In the dictionary under “Pillar of the Community”, it says, “See Rick Pyfer”! Rest in peace Rick and I know Jackie met you at the gates of Heaven. You are missed and loved by many.
My heart goes out to Rick’s family and friends during this most difficult time. Where there is sadness, love plants a garden of memories and may Rick’s garden forever bloom.
Glen J Cuchine says
To Rick’s family and many friends; I share your sense of loss. Rick exemplified the spirit of East Helena in his many kind deeds, community service and uplifting spirit. East Helena, Montana and the world are a bit less today without Rick. Peace.
Marv St Clair says
Condolences to all the family and friends, sorry for your loss! Spent some great times with Rick chasing a few foul balls at the Smelterites games, playing baseball being coached by Augie Van Diest and France White, skating the flooded field across the street from the Pyfer house, and the times we traveled together to Missoula helping with his brothers band! RIP..
John and Jody Doubek says
Rick will be greatly missed. Rest in peace good friend. So sorry for you all. So many fond memories.
Larry & Chris Hoffman says
Dear Sarah, Chris and family,
We are so sorry for the loss of Rick! We were shocked and saddened when we heard of his passing.
We have many wonderful memories of our lives with Rick. He played an instrumental part in raising our grandchildren, Kailey, Ally, and Jackson McMillan, and maintained a close relationship with them. For that we are forever grateful.
Rick would knock at our door with a big smile ready to share information on an East Helena event with Chris. He played accordion and helped to host our 50 th anniversary and much more! We loved Rick and will miss him very much!
Dan and Patti Jacques says
Rick was a wonderful person and it was a blessing to be part of his life.
Kathleen Hunthausen says
Beautiful and fitting obituary for a wonderful classmate and friend. I don’t know anyone, anywhere, who spread more good will, kindness, and generosity than Rick. The love and goodness he shared with the world cannot be overstated. The Hunthausen Family sends our most sincere condolences to the Pyfer Family and all of Rick’s loved ones. We can relate to so much of what is written about growing up in East Helena, and the rich cultural experience that it was. May we all be inspired by how Rick lived his life.
Margaret Woo says
I was gutted to learn this news last week. Rick and I served on the YMCA board together for many years. My term would have ended before his, but with the campaigns we were working on, and knowing his level of commitment and leadership, I chose to extend my term to work with him. RIck was a hard person to say “no” to when he asked for a donation, but he also always reciprocated by saying “yes” to requests for any worthy cause. Helena has lost not only a leader in philanthropy, but one of its great philanthropists. And, gone so soon, he had SO much more to give in every way. We knew each other through our affiliations with so many other organizations. I’m sure he would be just getting started on campaigns for 2024. I remember the first time I saw him as the “Carroll Crazy” at one of their home games. I did not know where that came from, but now I do. He really knew how to have a good time, celebrate his community, and spread joy. My deepest condolences to his family and all who knew him, and shared his love for Helena and all the good causes to be supported.
Kathleen Broussard says
We are so very sorry about your dad and grandpa. We loved Rick and we will really miss him. He was an amazing guy. What a wonderful tribute to him. I saw him at the Griz game Friday night and he assured me that the Griz were going to win! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Keith, Kathleen, and Kory Broussard
Vicki & Allen Veltkamp says
I have great memories of Rick as a child. He is my cousin & there was just enough age difference that I had a special connection with him when I could visit, in order to “mother ” him. I knew from the time he was little he would be a “mover & shaker” in his world. That he would make a difference in the world he lived in & I was so correct. It was a wonder to be able to watch him grow into the man he became and to enjoy life as much as he did. He made us all see the joy in life. He will be so missed.
Allen Chambers says
Allen & Kathy Chambers
Growing up in East Helena and a friend of Rick for over 65 years, the obituary truly embodies the person we knew and will always be remembered by us and this community. Thanks to all the Pyfer family for sharing him with us. God Bless.
Jean Stump Strainer & Anthony Strainer says
We send our heartfelt condolences to Rick’s family and dearest friends on behalf of the original Smith Bar family, including Mary Smith and Lucille Riger Stump. The East Helena Community and Greater Helena Area have lost one of its greatest advocates. Rick was a champion for youth, underserved families, and golden-agers. He always wore his East Helena pride on his sleeve and a smile on his face. East Pacific Street will never be the same. My fondest memories of Rick are when he was in his car and would see me on East Pacific – he would always do a U-turn, come screeching to a stop, and jump out of his car to give me updates on his recent endeavors. Each time, I wondered, “Did he put that car in the park?” God speed Rick – thank you for your lifetime of service, and may the eternal light shine upon you.
Michael Knight says
I have very fond memories of my dear friend, Rick. He played keyboards with my rock band “Dark Side”. We had plenty of exciting adventures on the road. We won the local “Battle of the Bands” several times and went to State on two occasions I have to admit that we weren’t all perfect angels on our road trips, but we never got into any real trouble. As you all know, Rick loved to talk. We used to tease him because, whenever he drove our band vehicle, he would turn around to the back seat to chat and make eye contact. We always said, “For Gods sake Rick, keep your eyes on the road!” LoL. After high school I moved to Helena and we lost touch. However, we connected again in November, 2021 when Dark Side got back together for a reunion gig to celebrate the Helena High School classes of ’69, ’70, and ’71. I stayed with Rick at his cabin on Canyon Ferry. We had lots of opportunity to discuss our intervening lives, family, religion, and politics. I am so very grateful we got to spend that time together. I was absolutely shocked at his passing. He was a great human being and a wonderful friend. He will be deeply missed.
Keif Storrar says
Rick was a great mentor, but an even better friend. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. The memories of his boundless energy and great sense of humor will live on in my heart the most. Cheers, Rick!
John Opitz says
I miss you my brother.
John E. Andrew says
Rick was the best of the best, I was fortunate to meet him early in his academic life and then later as a volunteer, always marveling at his boundless energy. He will be missed; godspeed Rick.
Patricia Scott says
What an amazing life Rick had! All the unselfish giving of self Rick was involved in that I had no idea of. I do know he was an amazing Father, Grandfather, Brother and friend. I always enjoyed his enthusiasm for life. i enjoyed every 4th of July at the Canyon Ferry cabin with Rick in the boat most of the day pulling anyone and everyone who wanted to go skiing or tubing. I was fortunate to be invited to the Country Club to play a round of Golf. Rick blessed my family every year by playing his accordion at our annual Christmas Tree Hop! Rick worked hard and played hard! He will be sorely missed!
Patti Scott Fries
Mick Taleff says
Rick was the ultimate passionate advocate for his clients. He constantly sought to improve his ability ability to champion their causes. I was not aware of all his contributions to the Helena community, but I am not surprised to read of them, given his absolute commitment to all he did. He made the world a better place. Rest in peace my friend.
Kelly Harris says
Heartfelt condolences to the Pyfer family. The story of East Helena could not be told without many pages on the impact of Rick Pyfer. His spirit of service and pride in the community of East Helena were unmatched. Without a doubt his impact will be felt in the streets of East Helena for generations to come.
Jud Allen says
I cannot express how much Rick meant to me and to the YMCA. He supported me and mentored me when I first became CEO. I spoke to him a few days before he passed and in true Rick fashion, he informed me I needed to increase the number I had budgeted for our annual campaign. “I can bring in $75,000 Judi, I will get it done.” He would too. No one worked harder on our annual campaign than he did. Because of him and all the donors, we have helped thousands of kids and families in the greater Helena area.
I am going to miss his lengthy emails, teaching him zoom, and his positive outlook!
Stephen Bostrom says
Rick made a deep impact on people and on our community. He leaves a deep hole and will be deeply missed. The day after Rick’s death, I called a mutual friend. Before I said a word, he started crying. He had heard!
Pyfer family and friends, may the God of comfort draw near to you and go with you through this grief.
At one time, Rick’s daughter Sarah lived down the street from our family. Since I was asked to officiate at Sarah and Paul’s wedding, I used to walk down to their house to do premarital counseling. Rick was living there while his home was being remodeled. It was good to have him there. And one other wedding note, at Sarah’s and Paul’s wedding, Sarah’s Labrador Retriever was the ring bearer (successfully!).
I knew Rick mostly through Kiwanis. Week by week, he carried on his Dad’s love for this group. I’m sure the vitality of Helena Kiwanis is significantly due to Rick. Friends, come and visit! Rick, we miss you!
James Molloy says
Rick lived a very great life, and had a good career as an attorney. He participated in many worthwhile projects. He will be missed.
Jim Cumming says
Steve Frankino introduced me to Rick back in the mid-1980s when I got to Helena. Always positive and friendly. Always wanted to know how you were doing. Will miss you my friend. Rest in peace.
Diana Hawbaker-Tavary says
Pyfer family, this is from the Graber family. We have enjoyed being your neighbors in EH since the early sixties. We watched each other grow up and move on in life. I had many friends jealous that I lived next to the most handsome boys in EH and musically talented. Every time the boys set up in the back yard to practice their craft of musical instruments and singing, I would call in the reinforcements for a dance party in the Pyfer’s back yard. Lots of great photo’s of the block kids during the holidays. And many more fun times at the cabin. It is not easy to accept Rick passing on. He has been a huge support to all of us Graber kids in one way or another. Some times I would just call Rick out of the blue and just check in with him, how is life going or what is new? I know that I speak for my whole family, that we miss Clark, Mary, Don and now we will miss Rick. A part of my childhood had gone with him. There was no better place to grow up in East Helena than on Pacific Street. Many blessings to all the Pyfer family and to the sweet Pouliot family too. Diana Graber Tavary
John Burke says
To the Pyfer Family, my deep condolences to you on the loss of a wonderful man, Rick. In my very early career, I had the pleasure of working with Clark at GH&G and in meeting Rick. Later, I had the honor of working with Rick in the initial years of the Western Montana Catholic Foundation. Rick’s deep Christian faith and steadfast dedication to the the Foundation were amazing. His contributions to the group laid the foundation for this cause to flourish. Helena has truly lost a “warrior” for all that is good.
Dan McGuire says
This doesn’t seem real. I see now that I was so lucky to have a long visit with Rick just a few months ago. We were friends since childhood, and he invited me to Brooklyn Bridge Piers to watch his grandson Athen play soccer. It was our only chance to see each other this year and it was a miserable, cold, windy, rainy day, but I went anyway, and I shivered all the way home on the subway. There aren’t many people in the world I would do that for. Maybe only one. And now he’s gone. I just can’t believe it.
Daniel Mack says
I long ago gave up on the wish that one of us would score on the other in Y noon basketball. But sometimes a guy can still dream, ya know, Rick? We’ll miss you, thinking about this, and Royal, and others, made me sadder than giving up ball. Remember that beautiful sound of dribbling on an empty court? A basketball I mean, not us, we did get old.
That’s old ballers missing you.
Beth McGuire Michaelis says
Rick’s father, Clark, and my mother, Eileen McGuire, worked together at Galusha Higgins until our family moved with Hugh Galusha’s family to Minnesota. Rick, like his father, was so generous, always with kind words. I have fond memories of Rick generously inviting my son and I to stay at their Canyon Ferry cabin on one of our Helena visits. A photo of my son on the sunny beach is a daily reminder of the many times we visited, skied and swam there with the Pyfer family. Rick will be fondly remembered as a beacon of life-long friendship from our years in Helena.
Dr. Shelly Harkins says
Thank you to Mr.Pyfer for his generosity to St. Peter’s Health. I did not know him but from everything I’ve heard about this great man, and knowing what he has left St. Peter’s, I wish I had the pleasure of knowing him better. Thank you, Sir. I pray for peace for his family. Shelly Harkins MD, President and CMO, St. Peter’s Regional Medical Center.
John Opitz says
I was truly honored to have been blessed with the privilege of having been friends with this wonderful man. Human decency walking. Rick had gifts of perception and intuition that could have only come from on high. The tenor and tone of a human person, who is telling the truth, has certain frequencies, discernible to those human persons who have a clear conscience, and whom do not have a troubled soul. In this regard Rick Pyfer had no equal. Perhaps both of our mom’s. It was one of our bonds. Rick was grounded in moral and ethical constitution which set the bar, from which all others could be measured. On a molecular level, Rick was incapable of doing, or participating in the wrong thing. The most decent, kind, honorable, noble person I ever shared a laugh with. A gallant warrior, in the army of The Lord. My brother, I am certain you made Jesus very proud. I know that you heard those words: “I knew this man Father.” I did as well sir Jesus, sir. Those of us who did, were truly blessed. Rick was a light from Heaven who shined on earth. Very brightly. Shine on dear friend. You will never be forgotten. Your memory I will always cherish.
Ann Cush says
My sister, Lynn, is married to Chris, Rick’s son. I’ve met Rick on various occasions, not only at my sister’s wedding, but in Brooklyn, where Chris and Lynn live. Rick always made such an impression upon me as being such an outstanding human being, entertaining us with his accordion, his singing, his infectious laugh, and his incredible smile. He had such enthusiasm for life and wanted everyone to join in the festivities with him, always making sure you were a part of his celebration. This life was way too short for a man who had way more things to do not only for his Helena, but for the people in it. Rick, you will forever be remembered & honored by those who you knew, including me. Helena will forever be grateful for ALL you did to make that town a better place, and we will be forever grateful to you for making this World a better place for us to live in.
Till we meet again…
Tom and Debbie Erving says
Sara and Chris and the Pyfer family, my heart goes out to you all. Rick was the best father, grandfather and friend. I know what his family meant to him. .We have been friends since 8 years old growing up at Canyon Ferry. Many great memories to hold close to your heart. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Brent Koning says
An absolute, unequivocal, original.
May his spirit live on in all of the lives he has impacted.
Diana Hawbaker-Tavary says
Thank you so much for allowing those of us who could not attend in person to watch the entire special time. It was wonderful and thank you to all of you who spent countless hours on the video and pictures, it was lovely. Blessings Diana Graber-Tavary
jim stipcich says
I was also truly honored to have been blessed with the privilege of having been friends with Rick. We shared many a story about my generation vs his generation and our respective days growing up in East Helena. Recently Rick became personally committed to making sure the heritage and tradition and culture of East Helena as it was during his and so many others youth was captured for all to understand and enjoy (and to learn from). Truth is, we just needed to clone Rick and no better example of such could ever exist. Rick, you will be missed. To all the family, you should all be proud of all that Rick, Clark and your entire family have done for East Helena and Helena. May you all find peace.
John Gallogly says
“Is Rick around?” It was a mantra in Zahm Hall at Notre Dame when Rick was dorm President. We made up multiple comic (we thought) answers, “No, he’s a trapezoid.” etc. But they kept coming. Dorm members with problems large or small, information needs or help with a problem, they all sought out Rick. And he was always available, always listened, looked for (and usually found) an answer. I have no idea how he studied; he was always busy. We all moved off campus for our senior year, but he was always a whirlwind of activities. When he first skied down the stairs while playing his accordion, I thought he had gone over the top, but no, he was just blowing off steam during exams. Lord, he was funny. And gentle and kind. I don’t know how his family is standing this loss. It’s very deep and the hole he left in folks hearts is hard to fill. Except by playing “O manisha pegla!” (sorry for spelling) on an accordion while dancing with a middle aged fat woman in a bar in South Bend, IN when you’re 20 years old. That was Rickie.
Lucia Lesar says
Deepest condolences on Rick’s passing. An amazing man. Trips to Montana were made always fun because Rick provided joy and entertainment.
The Lesar Family