Valeria Margaret Sauer Beebe was born June 23, 1923 in Rice, Minnesota to Benedict and Margaret Sauer. She was the eldest of seven children and lived the longest.
Valeria grew up in a close and loving family. Because of Ben’s interest in photography there are many photos documenting their family life together. Early on Valeria demonstrated a talent for sewing and designed and made many of the clothes for her five sisters and herself. As a teenager she considered entering holy orders. However, her mother became ill and she was needed at home to help care for the family. Because of this she was also unable to finish high school. Later she was proud to earn her GED.
As a young adult Valeria worked seasonally at Yellowstone National Park over the next 12 years. It was during this time that she met her husband Earl Beebe on a blind “Pinochle” date. They were married on October 17, 1963 in Bozeman Montana. They lived in Bozeman for a time and it was here that Brian was born September 18, 1965. They moved often but, finally settled in the Helena Valley. They lived here happily until Earl’s death in 1980.
She spent her last years at Son Heaven Assisted Living where she was enjoyed and loved by residents and staff. Brian continued to visit her often until her death.
Valeria was a soft spoken, deeply devout Catholic who was dedicated to family. She had a love for nature and being outdoors. She was strong, independent, hard working, and a compassionate selfless woman.
She is survived by son Brian; sister-in-law Kathy Sauer-Schlattmann; Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren and Great-Great Grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Earl, her parents, her five sisters and their spouses and her brother, niece Jeannie Reinardy, nephew Chip Saxton, and niece Peg O’Neill and husband Tom.
A Funeral Mass is scheduled for 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, 120 W Riggs, East Helena, followed by burial at St. Ann’s Cemetery in East Helena.
Sandra Guipre says
My time spent with Val is more precious than anything. I consider myself so fortunate to have known her for over sixteen years. The love we both had for each other was really special to me. I am really missing our talks and visits. I love you so very much.