Bonnie Sue Heller

1966 - 2008

On Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008, Bonnie Sue Heller, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend, was taken from us in a tragic automobile accident. The loss we feel cannot be put into words.

Bonnie was born on Oct. 28, 1966, to Jason "Butch" and Jean Lipes in Helena. Bonnie attended schools in East Helena and graduated from Helena High in 1984. During her high school years, she excelled in shotput and sprinting. She enjoyed playing her flute and being a part of the pep band and 4-H.

She stood out at USDA NASS, where she worked the last 17 years as a computer technician. She set and exceeded goals for herself which she was proud of.

Bonnie married the love of her life, her very best friend, Mike Heller, on Nov. 17, 1984. Together they created her greatest treasures, Amanda "Mandy," Kalli "Kalli-Jo" and Tyler "TJ," who she loved and adored beyond measure. Bonnie's life became complete with her husband and children by her side.

Bonnie had many passions in life. First and foremost was her time with family. She always made sure that they were individually supported and able to grow and show off their own talents. She never missed any of their events and she always stood out with her contagious laugh, beautiful smile and warm hugs.

Bonnie made friends easily and enjoyed her time with each and every one of them. She was beautiful in spirit, extremely smart, outgoing, loved being a leader and always gave 110 percent. To everyone she knew, she was compassionate, supportive, genuine and real. With a heart of gold and a true zest for life, she inspired us all.

Bonnie had a huge love for the outdoors. She could hunt with the best of them and there was never a challenge too great for her. She took advantage of any hot weathered day to go boating and found a thrill in riding their Harley with her husband. Bonnie loved camping, softball, playing games and reading a good book in her quiet hours. She stood by her beliefs and loved to share her opinion. She was simply amazing and has left behind a family who will grow from her beliefs, generosity, accomplishments and her wisdom.

No words could ever express our love for Bonnie Heller and just how deeply we'll always miss her.

Bonnie is survived by her husband, Mike; daughters, Amanda and Kalli; son, Tyler; parents, Jason "Butch" and Jean Lipes; brother, Chuck and Kim Lipes (niece Haley, nephew Chase); grandmother, Lois Patterson; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Trudy Ann Lipes; grandfather, Ivan Patterson; grandparents, Jason "Bud" and Fern Lipes.

A celebration of Bonnie's life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 29, at the Church of the Nazarene, 117 Valley Drive, Helena. A reception will follow the services.

Memorial donations in Bonnie's name may be made to the Church of the Nazarene, 117 Valley Drive, Helena, MT 59601.

To offer a condolence to Bonnie's family or to share a memory of Bonnie, please visit www.mem.com.