Dena Balstead

Dena Balstad passed away, September 30, 2020, in Casper, Wyo. following a lengthy illness. Claud Deanne Hart “Dena” was born March 14, 1945 in Thermopolis, Wyo. to Lucille Shoopman Hart and Claude Hart.

Dena married Gary Robinson May 18, 1963 who passed away September 21, 1963. She later married Thomas R. Balstad October 29, 1964. They had five children, Thomas R. Balstad, Jr., David A., Jeffory J., Lucille A. and John M.

Dena was preceded in death by her parents, Claude Hart, Lucille Wright and step-father, Roger Wright, son, Thomas R. Balstad, Jr., sisters, Mary Lou Charles, Pam Hart, and brother, Hal Hart.

She is survived by her daughter, Lucy (Lee) Rathbun of Thermopolis and sons, Dave of Thermopolis, Jeffory (Becky) of Gillette and John (Michelle) of El Dorado, Ark., 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by three brothers, Dick (Sandy) Howe of Thermopolis, Larry of Thermopolis and Mike (Cheryle) of Greybull and one sister Patti (Tom) Jeunehomme of Thermopolis.

She was a lifelong resident of Thermopolis and will be remembered by many for her work in the restaurant business. She enjoyed crocheting, antiques and going to yard sales. In her younger years she was a heck of a racquetball player and she enjoyed hunting and being out in nature.

Her smile and the twinkle in her eye will be missed by all.

Mortimore Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Messages may be offered at http://www.mortfh.com.

There will be a celebration of her life scheduled for spring, 2021.