Leslie (Sassy) Nielsen

Leslie (Sassy) Nielsen of Plains, Montana, became an angel on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2020, at Village Health Care Center, where she resided the last seven months, in Missoula.

Leslie was born June 1, 1944 to parents Lester and Dorrien Wolfe. She was raised on Camas Prairie and Ferry Basin also known as the “Winter Range” in Perma, Montana, USFS Facilities.

In 1952, Leslie and the family moved to Plains, Montana. This is where Leslie completed her public-school education. She then continued her education in the field of business in Missoula, Montana.

Leslie loved the beautiful scenery and serenity of Plains. She eventually called it home for many years.

In 1963, Leslie fell in love and married William Rich from Winifred, Montana, in her hometown of Plains. A daughter, Susan and a son, William (Billy) Rich, Jr. were born to this union.

Leslie worked at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula for over 25 years. Leslie cared about people so much. She was constantly donating to local and distant charities. She worked as a caregiver to people with special needs at the Little Bitterroot Special Education Facility in Plains.

Leslie was a loving mother, a very loving and caring grandmother, great grandma, and a very dear friend to those that had the privilege to know her.

Sassy is survived by her daughter Susan Hogan (fiancée Jeff Gill), three grandchildren: Ashley, Matt, Nathan (Kaila) Hogan, her sister Diane Larson, nephew Gerry Larson (Sandy) all of Missoula. She is also survived by Billy’s children; McKenzie, Aiden, and Hunter all of Plains and four beautiful great grandchildren: Noah, Paizlee, Adallee and Elijah all of Missoula.

Sassy is proceeded in death by her parents: Lester and Dorrien, son William “Billy” Rich, Jr., sister Judy and nephew Darren.

Leslie will always be remembered for her love of family, the beautiful outdoors of Montana, horses, the actor John Wayne, the music of Patsy Cline, as well as her generosity and love for others. Sassy loved to tell stories of her growing up and the history of her family back to the 1800s.

Leslie will be greatly missed by many.

No services are planned at this time. A celebration of her life will be held in the spring.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.gardencityfh.com.