Florence Joanne Connolly was born August 7 1932, during the Great Depression. Born the seventh of nine children, Flo grew up poor but rich with grit, resilience, and the ability to see the silver lining. Flo often regaled her children and grandchildren with stories of her childhood adventures when she “was a little boy” that highlighted both the hardships she endured and how she managed to find the positive even then.

Flo met Ed Dahlin at a dance in Decker, MT where he fell in love with her spitfire spirit and quick wit. The two were married in 1952 and were together until his passing in 2015. Together for 64 lively and love- filled years, Flo and Ed created a legacy of humor, adventure, and an overflowing family that includes five children, 16 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.

Flo had a knack for keeping life interesting. Whether yodeling for an audience of one or a crowd, or lacing up her bowling shoes to prove that age is just a number, she did it all with flair. She loved treasure hunting at garage sales, camping trips, gardening, and fishing excursions. Flo enjoyed speed walking, was in a local championship bowling league for decades, and always looked forward to attending The Queen of Hearts at the Elks.

Her home was a haven, the heartbeat of the family, a place where everyone felt safe and welcome. It was filled with laughter, love, and just the right amount of chaos to keep things interesting. Her cooking will be remembered, with a wince by those she fed in her early years and fondly by those lucky enough to enjoy her home cooking later in life.

Flo didn’t believe in dwelling on the negative. She approached life with humor and a deep belief in making the best of every situation. Her laughter was contagious, her advice was wise (if a little sassy), and her love was boundless. Flo spent her 92 years bringing joy, laughter, and touch of mischief to everyone she met.

On December 9, with her family by her side and her lifelong goal of outliving her siblings accomplished, Flo left us behind to reunite with her beloved husband and son.

Florence was preceded in death by her husband, Thure “Ed” Dahlin and her son, William Dahlin. She is survived by her children Gary (Debbie), Joni (Larry) Hiler, Wes, and Eric (Hayley); her grandchildren Tucker, Crystal, Annie, Tate, Kaydee, Tanner, Jacob, David, Hannah, Leah, Jessica, Skyler, Kinsey, Trent, Elle, and Taylor; and her great grandchildren Bridger, Jackson, Mason, Quinn, Flora, Leo, Will, Sadie, Fayette, Silas, Colton, Brigit, and Francis.

Kane Funeral home has been entrusted with the arrangements. There will be a viewing December 18 at noon, followed by a family burial at 1pm. A celebration of life will be held in Summer 2025, with a date to be announced later.

In lieu of flowers, please go for a walk, plant a flower, yodel a little louder, laugh a little harder, spend a little more time with your loved ones, and eat your dessert first so you have room for it.

Online condolences may be written at www.kanefuneral.com.

Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

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