Deborah J. Nielsen (Kienle), age 72, of Helena, Montana
Deborah (Debbie) Jean Nielsen passed away Saturday, January 16, 2021 a St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, MT. Debbie was born October 7, 1948 in Amarillo, TX. In addition to living at various times in Helena, MT, she also resided in Albuquerque, NM and Missoula, MT. She most recently resided at the Cooney Home in Helena. She retired as a cosmetology instructor after years of instructing young people whom she loved dearly.
She is preceded in death by her parents Jackie and Robert Kienle, and her sister Martha Kienle. She is survived by sons Lonny; Ken and his wife Rae Lynn, and grandchildren Savanna, Taylor and Jared; and Randy, his wife Whitney and grandchildren, Ellie, Layla and Riley. Additionally, she is survived by her brothers Jerry Kienle and Robert Kienle.
Throughout her life, Debbie was devoted to her children and grandchildren. There wasn’t an activity she didn’t pursue in order to spend time with family. From cross-country and snow skiing, to water skiing, horseback riding, and camping. She enjoyed painting ceramics, collecting Heisey glassware, and traveling.
A special thank you to the doctors and nurses in St. Peter’s COVID I.C.U. who took great care of her and comforted her during her last days.
Cremation has taken place but due to current circumstances, services will not be held. In lieu of flowers/memorials, please make a donation to the Lewis & Clark Humane Society. Thoughts and memories of Debbie can be made online at Retz Funeral Home – https://retzmemorials.com/. Please do your part to protect yourself and loved ones from this terrible disease.
Cheri Anderson says
This woman was one of the most caring and giving people I had the privilege of knowing. She would do anything for you. She was the grandmother to my two beautiful children and she loved them with her whole heart. I’ll never forget your kindness even through the tough times. Heaven gained one of the good ones. Your work on earth is done and now you have your angel wings to watch over Taylor and Jared. RIP my friend.
Taylor Nielsen says
Grandma, I will miss you greatly. I love you very much and I am sorry I couldn’t spend more time with you. I will always remember you and riding around in your jeep. You had that jeep for about as long as I can remember. I’ll remember going to the Flintstone park and Mount Rushmore. I’ll remember visiting you at the salon and wishing you could dye my hair pink. I love you and I wish I had been there to say goodbye. You are in a better place now, free of pain and illness.
Carol says
Debbie was one of those people who instantly was your friend. Easy to be around and at home with. I never got to know her as much as I’d wished, and for those of you who had the privilege of a close relationship I’m happy for you. She was kind and giving and had such a good & slightly wicked sense of humor. I’m sorry for you the family who lost this loved one, but may the memories be of comfort and God’s Grace cover each of you.
Love, Carol eks