Susan Lois Mehelich, 73, passed away peacefully at home, Sunday December 8, 2019 following a brief illness.
Born July 17, 1946, in Anaconda to Oscar and Lois Lanes (Hogenson). Susan was one of 7 siblings. She attended and graduated from Anaconda High School. Susan owned a salon in her Helena home. She enjoyed being the hairdresser to her many clients over the years. Working from home allowed her to hone her culinary skills, making her quite the cook, always preparing meals that would feed an army. No one ever went hungry with Susan in charge in the kitchen. Her Lefse and Povitica were always a treat.
Susan married Bruce Saarinen in 1968 and enjoyed family life with kids; Brett, Todd, and newborn daughter Wendy. On Christmas Eve 1970, her husband Bruce and daughter Wendy were killed in a tragic accident in Basin, Montana. Susan struggled to cope with this tremendous pain until meeting and being lifted by Steve Mehelich. They were married in 1972. Steve was a devoted husband to Susan, step-father to Susan’s sons Brett and Todd, and in 1974 they welcomed the birth of son Stephen. Sadly, after a 4 year battle with cancer, Steve’s life was cut short and he was taken from the family in 1994.
Susan was preceded in death by her brother Dr. Terry Lanes, and nephew Ron Cooper.
Susan is survived by her three sons, Brett (Melissa) Saarinen, Todd (Jeanne) Saarinen, and Stephen (Heather) Mehelich; her brothers and sister, Oscar “Butch” Lanes, Chuck (Sandy) Lanes, Charlotte Cooper, Duane (Judy) Lanes and Carl (Patti) Lanes; Grandchildren Shelby Saarinen and Dylan Saarinen, Great-Grandchild Sean Thatcher Jr. (Baby-J); numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
A memorial celebration of Susan’s life will be held next summer with friends and family. If you would like to be notified with the time and the location of the memorial once it’s scheduled, please email your contact information to susan.mehelich.memorial@gmail.com. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of Susan.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
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Martha Kohl says
Todd, Brett, and families: Please accept my condolences on the death of your mom. I’m very sorry for your loss.
Kristin Murray says
To Susan’s family, she was an amazing lady! She of course was my hair dresser while she was here in Helena! I would like to think we solved all the worlds problems in our times together:) So sorry for your loss but treasure all of the I’m sure great memories with your mom and kids grandma. She will be greatly missed by many!!
Judi Saarinen says
We were so sorry to read that Susan had passed away. She was a special lady and we have great memories of her. Please know we are thinking of all of you during this difficult time.
Lanae Matson Vetsch and Kathy Tomaskie says
Brett, Todd, Stephen and families.
Both my mom and I were sadden to hear about the loss of your mom. We had very special times together and lots of laughs and will be missed by all who knew her. May happy memories help to ease your sorrow. We are thinking of you.
Jane Culler says
Stephen – though I didn’t know your Mom
I do want to convey my condolences for
your loss. Thinking of you as you walk
through this time. Blessings always Jane
Craig Bowman says
May your Memories be forever and your mourning short. Many blessing to you all.
Susan Smith says
My heart just hurts loosing one of my best friends. Susan was such a BIG influence in my life – helping form the woman I am today. She gave me love and lots of laughter. She gave me confidence and self-worth. I loved her dearly. We didn’t have to talk to each other to know we were always there for each other. I will miss talking to her, but know someday we will see each other again.
My heartfelt sympathy to her boys and their families and her family.