Lois Jean Dunlap

Lois J. Dunlap, 83, of Missoula, passed away at her home surrounded by her family on Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2017.

Born to John and Helen Pozega in Anaconda on July 8, 1934, Lois graduated from Butte High School in 1952, then earned a nursing degree from Carroll College. Lois married William James "Jim" Dunlap on June 21, 1957. In the early years of their marriage, Lois worked tirelessly to support her growing family so that Jim could complete him medical school education, internship, and residency.

Living first in Oregon, where their eldest children, Shannon and Sarah, were born, they subsequently moved to Texas, where their son, John, joined the family. In 1965, Lois and Jim settled in Missoula, where Jim opened his dermatology practice. There they completed their family with the birth of their youngest, Molly. Lois and Jim recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

Lois was all about family, and was the matriarch of her clan. Among her life-long best friends were her sisters and brothers, and their wives and husbands. Lois remained a loving and devoted partner to her husband, Jim, for six decades, and together they created a strong and flourishing family. Pouring her love and guidance on her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren truly was Lois' life's work. Her loss, to her family, is incalculable, but her strength, love, humor and wisdom remain. It runs the through all of her family. Of course it does — she put it there.

Lois loved long road trips, garage sales, reading, playing bridge, chocolate, cats and dogs, feeding the birds around her house, and generously and constantly giving gifts. Lois also liked following the stock market in order to actively manage her investments (a tip from Lois: QVC and HSN are likely to take a negative hit with her passing).

Survivors include: her husband, Jim Dunlap, of Missoula; her children and their families, Shannon (Martin) King, Missoula, Sarah Dunlap (Butch Laughlin) Juneau, Alaska, John (Alison) Dunlap, Sitka, Alaska, Molly (John) Bennett, Missoula; her sisters and brothers, Jane (Ron) Bender, Missoula, Rich (Caryl) Pozega, Dillon, Judy (John) Jones, Butte, John (Nancy) Pozega, Renton, Washington, Bob (Maxine) Pozega, Albuquerque, New Mexico; along with seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pursuant to her wishes, no formal memorial service will be held. The family will have a private celebration of Lois' life at a later date. Cards and remembrances may be sent to Jim Dunlap.