Catherine "Kathy" (Sauer) Gill

Mae Edith Catherine (Kathy) Gill was born on May 17, 1937, in San Francisco, California, to Anthony John Sauer and Lavon Virgil Wells.  In December 1956, Kathy married Joe Smith, and the couple welcomed their daughter, Linda Cox (Sauer), in 1957.  On September 30, 1964, Kathy remarried Francis James Gill in Imperial, California, and their son Marc was born in 1965.

Tragically, on October 31, 1965, Kathy and Francis were involved in a severe car accident in Avon, Montana.  Francis passed away, and Kathy sustained a traumatic brain injury.  Following the accident, Kathy became a ward of the state in 1966.  She was cared for at Boulder River School and Hospital until 1978, and subsequently spent time in group homes located in Harlem, Helena, Kalispell, and Glasgow.

In December 1986, Kathy moved to the Crawford Group Home in Hardin, Montana, where she remained under the care and support of Regional Services/Resource Support and Development until her passing.  Kathy enjoyed simple pleasures such as knitting, ironing, drinking coffee, and indulging in sweets.  She was known for her playful spirit, often making up words or expressing curiosity about language, with staff helping her explore meanings using her dictionary.

Kathy addressed those around her by descriptive terms such as “he, she, that girl, or tall man”, reflecting her unique perspective of the world.  In her earlier years at the day center, she contributed by assisting in the greenhouse and performing various tasks.  Known for her spunky attitude and expressive vocabulary.  Kathy remained active and engaged in crafts, reading, recreational activities, and outings with support from caring staff.

In later years, Kathy enjoyed spending time in her recliner watching television and observing her peers.  She would often express affection with phrases like “I love you,” compliment others, “Your hair is beautiful,” wink, kiss your hand, and share her quirky sense of humor with comments like, “Peanut butter and bacon sounds good.”  Her radiant smile and infectious laughter touched many hearts.

A few years ago, Kathy was reunited with her daughter Linda after years of searching, allowing them to share precious moments together.  Linda’s visits and thoughtful gifts brought Kathy much joy during her later years.

Kathy held a special bond with her peers, who admired and lovingly looked after her.  She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

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