Marilyn Jeannine Strand, 86

Marilyn Jeannine Strand passed away Jan. 27, 2018, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Hardin, the fourth child of Art and Effie Koebbe. She graduated from Hardin High School. While attending Montana State College she met the love of her life. Myron and Marilyn were married in 1952. Following their marriage they were stationed in Texas, Alabama, Alaska and Kansas while Myron learned to fly with the U.S. Army.

In 1964 they settled in Kalispell where Marilyn put her skills to work making a home for them, raising their five children and supporting Myron as they operated the family business, Strand Aviation.

They were members of the First Presbyterian Church where she served in the Stephen Ministry and was a deacon. She was active in PEO, Rainbow Girls, MPA, bridge, poker and sewing clubs, and she volunteered her time in recent years at the Museum at Central School.

Marilyn is survived by husband, Myron Strand; and her children, Daya (John) Horine, Deanna (Don) Dyk, Dwayne (Carol) Strand, Danette (Ty) Adams, and Darryl (Christy) Strand. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Arleyne and Joyce, and her brother Ronald Koebbe.

Marilyn is best known for her love of family, her skills at organizing family events, time with friends, and her love for travel.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to her some favorite charities: Wings Regional Cancer Support or the Montana Pilots Association.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Christopher Gill and the loving caregivers and staff at the Bee Hive Homes of Kalispell.

A celebration of her life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 3, at the Elks Lodge, 1820 U.S. Hwy. 93 South in Kalispell.

Darlington Cremation and Burial Service is caring for Marilyn’s family.