Nita Routzahn passed away peacefully at Rocky Mountain Healthcare Community in Helena, MT., on November 6th, 2017. Nita was born October 27th, 1932 to parents; Fern & William Hebb in Mossmain, MT.
Nita and her family lived in rural Montana while her father worked for the Great Northern Railroad and her mother ran the local café. Times were tough in those days and the family often lived in tents and converted boxcars. The Hebb family eventually moved to Helena, where Nita graduated from Helena High School in 1951. Nita married David Routzahn in 1954 and the couple moved to Virginia where David was stationed in the Army. In 1955 their first daughter, Deborah Lynn, was born. Nita and Debi returned to Helena while David was serving overseas. Daughter, Kathy Jean, was born in 1957. After David’s discharge the family lived in Bozeman, Great Falls, Kalispell and Helena. Children, Kellie Jane and James William were born in 1962 and 1965. The family eventually settled in Helena in 1969, where they built their dream home on University Ave.
Nita worked at CR Anderson School for many years as a para professional where she met many life-long friends. She was working for the Montana State Board of Housing when she retired in 1994.
Nita was an avid reader and gardener. She loved to take long walks and spend time with her family. Nita loved all animals especially her beloved cat; Elsie.
Nita was taken from us after suffering many years with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. She is now at home in Heaven with her loving parents.
She is survived by; her children: Debi (Jim) McGee, Kathy (Don) Reller, Kellie (Troy) Auck and James Routzahn; grandchildren: Andrea, Christopher, and Michael Erickson, Ian (Val) and, Andrew Bone, Jesse (Kari), Cody and Cheyenne Auck and Laina Routzahn; great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Bode and Kingston. Nita is also survived by her sister, Betty (Fred) Curtis; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Nita was preceded in death by her mother, Fern Loranz and father, Bill Hebb.
The family would like to thank the loving staff at Rocky Mountain Care Center for their years of care and compassion.
In Lieu of flowers you can send donations in Nita’s name to the Lewis & Clark Humane Society, 2112 E. Custer Ave., Helena, MT., 59602. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 14th at Rocky Mountain Care Center with a luncheon reception following the service, at 30 S. Rodney St, Helena. Please visit www.retzfuneralhome.com to offer her family a condolence or to share a memory of Nita.
Tom Miller says
Many prayers to Nita’s family at this sad time. Nita was a sweet gentle person with whom I enjoyed working at CRA. She was great help in the office and always so kind to everyone. God Bless her and her family.
Donna Jackson Turcott says
I, too, knew Nita at CRA, both as an employee and as the mom of Kellie and James. She was always very kind and supportive. My sympathy goes out to all of her family. Blessings to all of you.
Donna Coman says
Kathy & Family,
I was sorry to read about the passing of your Mother. In reading the comments, your Mother was a special lady. It is so tough to loose Mom. Please accept my sympathy, you are in my thoughts & prayers.
Donna Peterson Coman
Teresa Menicucci says
After 40 plus years in nursing, there are a choice few you never forget. Nita is one of them along with her girls. I will remember her always. Thank you for letting us say goodbye.
Linda Garnett says
Debbie, Kathy, Kelli and Jimmy…so sorry to learn of Nita’s passing…so many wonderful memories spent on 1st Avenue West in Kalispell. Back when we could run across the street to each other’s house and play outside until dark. Time goes on and we sadly lose touch. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers and just maybe our paths will cross again. It would be fun to catch up. Hugs to you all.. Linda Trippet Garnett