Lola K. Wilkinson

Lola Wilkinson, 96, of Missoula passed away Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at St. Patrick Hospital. A graveside service was held at Missoula City Cemetery for family February 21, 2024.

Lola Kathryn Wilkinson, daughter of Leslie and Olive (Messer) Towne, was born July 13, 1927 in Sequim, Washington. She attended schools in the Sequim area. Lola was united in marriage with Ronald Wilkinson February 11, 1961 in Federal Way, Washington, after meeting as dance instructors at Arthur Murray’s Dance Studio. The couple later relocated to Missoula.

Lola worked many jobs with Ron, including operating The Beef Eater restaurant, as they began to acquire rental properties. Over the fifty plus years Lola ran a successful rental business she touched many lives. Lola had several tenants well over a decade, rented to multiple same-family generations throughout the years, and provided a home for countless college students now spread throughout the world. She also developed many close relationships with other Missoula small businesses owners. She was a member of Hellgate Elk’s Lodge 383 and PEO in Missoula. Lola was a talented cook often working from old recipes handed down from her mother and grandmother. Holiday treats, her almond roca and shortbread specifically, was a favorite of many. She loved good food and enjoyed going out to dinner with family and friends. She was always caring for her family and cherished the time she was able to spend with her loved ones having tea, traveling, visiting Lake Crescent, in addition to a variety of other special celebrations and holidays. Her presence always brought smiles and completed the occasion. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who will be a greatly missed. She was stern, fair, and loving.

Lola is survived by two children, five grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and two brothers.

Online condolences may be left at gardencityfh.com