Marilyn Lofing

Marilyn Kay Lofing passed away from natural causes at age 77 on September 13, 2024 in Missoula, Montana. 

Marilyn was born April 10, 1947 in Billings, Montana to Pete and Anna Lofing. Marilyn grew up on the family farm in Columbus. She was active in 4-H, FHA, and Luther League; she graduated from Columbus High School in 1965. After moving to Missoula to be close to her sister Phyllis, Marilyn graduated from Modern Beauty School in 1969. She started her nearly 50-year career as a talented hair stylist at Burton’s Beauty Salon, went on to own A Cut Above, and ultimately established Hair Now with one of her closest friends, Rita Mae. 

Marilyn competed in many hair shows throughout the U.S. and Europe, taking several top awards. She served on the board of the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists for many years and was a wonderful mentor to any stylist who crossed her path. Being an artist with fabric, Marilyn designed and sewed countless quilts that are cherished by her family and friends. She was also a longtime volunteer with Missoula County 4-H, mentoring young people with their quilting projects.

Gardening was one of Marilyn’s very favorite activities. Hours spent in her greenhouse provided summer delights for family and friends. Her perennial flower garden was matchless. 

Marilyn loved to cook and host beautiful dinners at her quaint home in the Lower Rattlesnake. She was surrounded by many types of art. Among Marilyn’s favorite things in life were a good cup of coffee, Chinese food, the color fuchsia, late nights, great movies, Double Front chicken, playing pinochle with friends, homemade borscht, and her extended family. It was her tradition to give all the kids in her family their first haircuts, and she did hair for almost all her nieces’ and nephews’ weddings as well. Marilyn was known for her directness, creativity and generosity, as well as her hearty laugh, big hugs and steady faith.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents Peter and Anna Lofing, older sister Phyllis, and niece Michelle Carper. Survivors include John (Jayne) Lofing of Galesburg IL, Gary (Pat) Lofing and Greg (Kristi) Lofing, all of Columbus MT, Vicki (Elmer) Kutzler of Havre MT, and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

The family wishes to extend deep gratitude to the wonderful caregiving team at Riverside Health and Rehab who brought so much dignity and comfort to Marilyn’s final months and days. In addition, the unconditional love and support given by nephew Nick, niece Mariah, and their three children (Petey, Josephine and Ellie) were commendable and the rest of the family appreciates all their efforts.

Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service is scheduled for October 5, 2024 at 11:00 am at St. James Lutheran Church in Columbus MT, followed by a lunch reception at the Columbus Senior Center. Guests are encouraged to bring a quilt Marilyn made for them to adorn the pews of the church. Marilyn will be buried on the family farm in Columbus at the cemetery on the hill.

Memorials may be made in Marilyn’s honor to the Missoula Food Bank (1720 Wyoming St Missoula MT 59801) or the Missoula County 4-H (1075 South Avenue W Missoula MT 59801).