Dena Balstad

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

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.

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

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

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.