Helen Louise (Flagler) Mace

Helen Louise, also known as “Weasie,” passed away on Jan. 16, 2024, in Billings, at the age of 94. She was born on March 6, 1929, in Worden, to Louis and Helen Bade. She grew up in Bridger Bowl and later moved to Laurel, where she attended Laurel High School and met her first husband, Reinhold Flagler.

Helen Louise and Reinhold were married on June 24, 1948, and raised their three children in Laurel, where she worked as a grocery clerk at Thriftway and later at Albertsons. She was known by many for her friendly greeting in the Albertson’s checkout line. Helen Louise and Reinhold later moved to Billings, where she worked as a proofreader for Deluxe Check Printers.

Following Reinhold’s death in 1991 of cancer, Helen Louise immersed herself in volunteering and her community. She regularly donated blood to help others fighting cancer and was a beloved member of the First Christian Church, where she was active in the choir. Her faith played an important role in her life, providing solace and community.

In her free time, Helen Louise enjoyed playing cards — in fact, it was playing a game of pinochle where she met her second husband, Bob Mace, in 1998. Together, Helen Louise and Bob traveled extensively and enjoyed hosting and visiting the grandchildren. After Bob passed away in 2005, Helen Louise continued to travel as part of the “Global Grannies” group.

Helen Louise had a passion for creating delicious treats and spending time with her loved ones — her grandchildren contend nothing beats “Grandma’s Bread” and “Grandma’s Cookies” fresh out of the oven! She will be remembered for her kind heart, quick wit and loving nature.

Helen Louise is survived by her sister, Patricia Wattles; her children, Keith (Marcia) Flagler, Kevin (Bev) Flagler and Nancy (Bill) Nichols; and her grandchildren, Reagan (Greg) Maechling, Lucas (Catherine) Flagler, Ryan (Catherine) Nichols, Renee (Gleb) Zarkh and Drew (Lisa) Nichols. She is also survived by her stepchildren from her marriage to Bob Mace: Nickie (John) Langeliers, Rusty (Ceylon) Mace and Laurie Mace; and grandchildren Jennifer (Phil) Andrew, Jessica (Aaron) Mace, Jillian Mace, Erin Halstvedt, Eric (Malia) Halstvedt, Shawn (Angie) Langeliers, Brian Langeliers, Laura Langeliers. She also leaves behind six great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. Helen was preceded in death by her husbands, Reinhold Flagler and Bob Mace, as well as her parents, Louis and Helen Bade, and her brothers, Donald and Robert Bade.

The funeral arrangements are being handled by Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary in Billings. A memorial service will be held in March.

Helen Louise will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice.