Helen Marie Sayler Dahl

Helen Marie Sayler Dahl passed away unexpectedly from pulmonary complications at her home in Bozeman on Friday, January 3, at the age of 75. She was born September 2, 1938 in Pierre, South Dakota to Gideon and Mena Sayler. She spent her childhood on a South Dakota farm and came to Bozeman in 1950 when the family moved to a ranch in Bridger Canyon. She attended the Lower Bridger School and completed her high school years at Mount Ellis Academy. Following high school graduation she taught at one-room schools in both Bozeman and Livingston and furthered her education during the summers. In 1960 she married LaVerne Dahl in Bozeman. After several years of living out of state they returned to Bozeman in 1972 with their four children, where she spent the remainder of her life. When the marriage ended in 1997, she devoted her time and energies to serving others. Helen worked for many years at Mount Ellis Academy and then she started her own business, 'Helen's Design and Sew'. She was an extremely skilled seamstress and was much sought after for her expertise. Many bridal parties were beautifully gowned and attired by Helen's handiwork. Helen was much loved within her church community. As an active member of the Bozeman Seventh-day Adventist Church, she gave generously of her time and talents in various aspects of church life. Helen enriched worship services with her music, was a member of the church board for numerous years, and made sure the church was beautifully decorated for every season. She was willing and able to serve wherever and whenever needed. As well as sharing her musical talents at church, she also taught piano privately for many years. Her community involvement found her working regularly at the Community Cafe, which brought her great pleasure. For many years she enjoyed entering her handiwork projects in the Montana Winter Fair until she had won so many sweepstakes it was time to let someone else have a chance. Helen was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her four children and their spouses, ten grandchildren, two great-grandchildren as well as two aunts and several cousins. A memorial service will be held at the Bozeman Seventh-day Church located at 24 N. 15th on Saturday, January 11, at 2:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to The Community Cafe or to the Warming Center through the Bozeman Seventh-day Adventist Church (mailing address: 2208 Arrowleaf Hills Dr., Bozeman, MT 59715). In addition, a memorial fund has been set up in her name at Mount Ellis Academy, 3641 Bozeman Trail Rd., Bozeman, MT 59715. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.dahlcares.com