Helen F. Arnold

Helen Dommer Arnold, 106, was welcomed into the arms of her loving Lord on October 4, 2020.   She was born on December 30, 1913, to Fred and Hildora Dommer, in Fowler, Montana. Shortly after, two sisters and two brothers joined the family. Since Helen was the oldest, she was often “in charge” of her younger siblings which she said, “sometimes resulted in a kick in the shins!”

She attended country school near their farm and high school in Conrad. After completing one year of college at Northern Montana in Havre, she received a teacher’s certificate and taught at the Pondera School. She later worked at the Toole County Courthouse in the Triple A farm program until she married the handsome cowboy and rancher she had met while teaching. Helen and Fred Arnold were married on December 1, 1939 and lived and raised their family on the family farm and ranch east of Brady.  In October 2005, they moved to the Horizon Lodge in Conrad during the winter and headed back to the ranch come spring.

Following Fred’s passing in 2007, Helen moved to Shelby to be closer to her daughter and husband. Helen’s last ten years were spent in the loving care of the Marias Care Center in Shelby.

Helen was a very active member of Golden West Lutheran Church, teaching Sunday School, Bible School, and Ladies’ Aid activities. She was a Brownie Scout leader and enjoyed the Knees Women’s Club. Helen knew no strangers and was loved by all. She enjoyed spending time with her family and having her grandchildren and extended family and friends visit the ranch. She was known for NEVER saying anything derogatory about anyone!

A private family Celebration of Life and burial will take place on October 10, 2020.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Fred; daughter, Phyllis Fjeld; grandson, Alan Fjeld; baby Fjeld; her parents; sisters, Alice Berg and Jeanette Strom; brothers, Fred Dommer and Ray Dommer. She is survived by daughter, Jan (Dwayne) Irvin of Shelby; son, Wayne Arnold of Brady; special daughter-in-law, Sue Arnold of Conrad; grandchildren, Jodi (Ron) Duncan of Cut Bank, Jeff Meuli of Billings, Kelli (Kirby) Lohr of Shelby, Tobin (Julia) Arnold of Conrad, Tyler (Julie) Arnold of Conrad, Jennifer Standley of Missoula, Kirsten (Steve) Zillmer, Northfield, MN, Kaarin (Paul) Collins of England; 19 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Mildred Dommer of Ledger; and numerous nieces and nephews who held a very special place in her heart!

Memorials may be sent to Golden West Lutheran Church, Great Falls Rescue Mission or charity of your choice.