Helen G. Petroff

Helen Gurena Petroff 93, passed away October 17, 2025, at Providence St. Patrick Hospital. Helen was born during the Great Depression in Livingston Montana on September 21, 1932, to Olie Hansen and Maude Hansen. She was one of six children.

Helen grew up in Livingston attending grade school and high school. She was captain of her high School Volleyball team. She also worked at the Strand Theatre. Helen enjoyed return visits to Livingston and sharing her memories of her childhood there.

In Livingston Helen met, and married, her first husband William Clark Kaiserman. They moved to Missoula in 1952. Helen and Bill had two children, Lori Ann Kaiserman and Jerry Clark Kaiserman. Helen and Bill were divorced in 1960.

In 1962 Helen married Richard “Dick” Petroff of Missoula. They had one child, Susan Corrinne Petroff. Both Helen and Richard worked at the mill in Bonner for many years. After the mill, Helen worked as a secretary for Tipp, Frizzell & Buley. Richard passed away on July 29, 2008.

Helen was an active member of the Daughters of the Nile for many years. She loved going to the mall to shop and people watching and visiting, visiting with family and going out to Sunday breakfast with her children and grandchildren. She stayed active in social activities including the knitting group at Christ the King Church. Helen was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church for many years. She attended services regularly until her health made it too difficult.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband Richard. Helen will be missed by her loving family: Lori Barnett (Sean) of Alaska, Jerry Kaiserman of Missoula, Sue Hightower (Tom) of Missoula and her six grandchildren: Starting with the oldest, Nelz Barnett (Brandi) of Alaska, Kara Freeborn (Dusty) of Alaska, Joanna McBride (Dan) of Washington, Chris Hightower (Samantha) of Missoula, Maggie Kaiserman (Tim) of Washington and Cady Lawson (Dustin) of Missoula.

Helen was blessed with seven great grandchildren: Kadence Barnett, Kendall Barnett, Lola Freeborn, Blakeley Barnett, Cruz Freeborn, Olina McBride and Ada McBride.

The family is thankful to the staff at Providence St. Patrick Hospital and all the caregivers that provided loving care for Helen as her health declined the last few years. A special thank you to the staff and caregivers at Home Care Montana.

Helen was an impeccable dresser. She loved to laugh and had a smile that would warm the room. She will be missed by her loving family

A gathering and celebration of life will be held sometime next summer.