Marian Alyce Sessions passed away peacefully the afternoon of February 22, 2017 after an extended battle with pulmonary hypertension. Marian left us while holding hands with loving family at Touchmark Retirement Center in Helena, MT. Marian was 78 years old.
Marian was born on July 24th, 1938 in Chicago, IL to Herman and Evelyn Patz. She was the only daughter and youngest of 3 children. Marian grew up in Elmhurst, IL active in Girl Scouts, church and school activities, and helping with her mother’s catering business. Always open to fun and excitement, Marian left Illinois right after high school with her friend and traveled by train to Los Angels, CA in search of adventure. Little did she know that trip would set her on a 60 year voyage with the love of her life.
Marian met a dashing young Airman, Dalton (Dal) Sessions, in Los Angeles on June 23rd, 1956 on a date arranged by her brother. After a whirlwind romance, they were married on August 24, 1957 in Elmhurst, IL. They set up their first home in converted WWII Marine Corps barracks outside of Edwards Air Force Base in the California desert. Marian was fond of saying she misunderstood the minister when he said “for better or worse” that it would lead to packing and unpacking for 25 more moves.
Marian dedicated her life to family and friends. She was the consummate mother, wife, friend, neighbor and hostess. Known by all for incredible cooking, Marian was most fond of close family dinners, wonderful holiday traditions, hosting friends and neighbors at numerous gatherings in their home. Dal has often said he wishes he had a dime for every batch of chocolate chips cookies that Marian baked. Of course, every batch was a double: with and without nuts.
Marian loved being active in community groups. She was a long-time leader for the Girl Scouts, active in PTA, Newcomers, the Republican Women and the Helena Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center.
Along with family and a civic commitment, Marian found time for her favorite hobbies: quilting, bridge and fishing. Anyone who ever had the privilege of sitting at a bridge table with her, quickly learned of her skill and wit. Marian spread her love to family and friends with many beautiful quilts they will cherish for a lifetime.
Anyone who has held a fishing pole has some great stories. Marian was no exception. One of the family favorites was an Alaska Halibut fishing trip where Marian landed a 90 pound whopper. She strained her shoulder while landing it and complained about her “halibut shoulder” for years after.
The family is grateful that Marian is finally breathing freely again. She was proceeded in death by her parents and two brothers. Marian is survived by her beloved husband and soulmate, Dal; four children: Michele Engebretson and husband Steve, Ashburn, VA, Deanna Robinson and husband Dr. Dave Robinson, Pueblo, CO, Denise Heesch and husband Rev Jay Heesch, Wisconsin Dells, WI and Dale Sessions and wife Dr. Lisa Sessions, Butte, MT. She was loved by 11 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
The family requests memorials be sent to Covenant United Methodist Church, 2330 East Broadway, Helena, MT 59601.
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