Helen Sauer

The world lost one of the most beautiful souls ever known on February 1, 2020. Helen Louise Clegg-Sauer passed from this earth at the Wyoming Regional Medical Center due to a compromised digestive tract. Born on June 10th, 1928 to Thelma Venita Ross-Clegg and Lewis Ogden Clegg, Helen was born in Casper, growing up with her two full siblings Bill and Dale, as well as her half sister Marcelene, all of whom graduated from Natrona County High School.

The birth and death of this great woman is not nearly as relevant as the experiences she had; Helen lived life on her own terms - vivaciously, colorfully and to the fullest. In the early 50's she struck out in her zest for travel and landed a job at the now defunct Cal-Vada Lodge in Lake Tahoe, NV. As a card dealer, she rubbed elbows with some of the brightest stars of Hollywood at the time (as well as some notorious mobsters). As that adventure drew to a close, Helen returned to Casper and began a career in the oil industry as one of the first female drafters of the time. Helen always loved a challenge, and her ability to expertly create complex schematics by hand transferred well when she began painting. Her art was exceptional, and ranged from realistic still life's, to portraiture. Helen's paintings are still prized today for their lifelike details and stunning beauty. Later in life she honed her love for all things beautiful by traveling extensively to buy for the three antique stores she owned and operated over her lifetime, the last of which was Forget-Mo-Not Antiques which was located at 516 E. Yellowstone Hwy.

Helen married Louis Andrew Christenson in 1948, and together they had a son, Christopher Christenson.  Helen’s second marriage to William ‘Bill’ Sauer welcomed the arrival of their daughter Michelle Sauer. Both of Helen's husband's were active in the oil industry, with Bill being one of the original members of the Petroleum Club.

Helen loved spending time with her family, friends, and her beloved "furry children". Over the years she traveled extensively with the dogs, spending her summers in California at her brother Dale and his wife Pat's home. She undertook her last trek to Pismo Beach, California in 2018 to spend time with Dale, whom she lovingly referred to as her “Baby Boy” during his hospice. On that long trip, she shared many wonderful stories with her niece Lisa, regaling her international travels, all of the interesting folks she'd met, and fantastic experiences she was fortunate to enjoy...and she nearly always ended those tales with her trademark "True story!" For a short time Helen lived in California, as well as Arizona and New Mexico, but she always returned to her hometown of Casper.

Another of Helen's Happy Places was her home on Alcova Reservoir. Her property there has been in the family since the early 50's and Helen hosted more gatherings and great blow out parties than one could shake a stick at. She loved cooking, entertaining, Happy Hour and shenanigans, and the acquaintances made there still impact her legacy today. The Family was delighted to learn her wonderful friend Tom Branson will continue the tradition as the site passes to his care now.

Even at the age of 91, Helen was sharp as a tack and always the consummate lady, taking her time to ensure her hair and makeup were absolutely perfect, and of course, her outfit matched the occasion - even if it were just a trip to Smith's for groceries. Her wit, candor and compassion remained as well, and she regularly participated in supporting those less fortunate than she, even on her fixed income. Her selfless generosity helped to support various animal shelters as well as those battling addiction, substance abuse and mental illness.

Our beautiful Helen joins her family in heaven including her baby girl Michelle, son Christopher, father Lewis, mother Thelma, full brothers Bill & Dale, and half/step siblings Marceline, Mary Ann, Bobby Lew and Eugene. We know her little pooches are happy to have their Mama back to spoil them inside the pearly gates as well. Helen is survived by her nieces Nancy Branson, Sandy Rae Beckman, Deloris Rosekelly, Lisa Clegg-Price and Donna Clegg-Rumsey, her adoring sister-in-law Pat Clegg, and her amazing friend Tom Branson, all of whom carry a hole in their heart which can never be filled in the loss of our dear Helen.

At Helen’s request, there will not be a formal service. A celebration of life had been planned for June, but due to the COVID-19 virus outbreak, the event has been cancelled. The family will hold this celebration at a later date and anyone who knew and loved Helen is welcome to attend. Please contact her niece, Lisa Price at lisaprice@yahoo.com to be added to the invite list. The Family asks that those wishing to honor Helen's memory do so by making a donation in her honor to the Casper Humane Society, 849 East E St., Casper, WY 82601

The Family also wishes to thank Bustard & Jacoby, Funerals, Cremations, Monuments and Receptions, and specifically Joey Casada for the gracious care taken in preparing Helen for her final journey. Their compassion, professionalism, and sincere, heartfelt care did not go unnoticed, and we are very grateful.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Bustard & Jacoby Funeral Home, 600 CY Avenue, Casper, WY 82601.