In Loving Memory of Marlene Holland

Marlene Holland, aged 88, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2025.

Born on May 1, 1936, to Allyn and Irene (Reindl) Holland in Butte, Montana, Marlene spent her entire life in her hometown. With a smile, she would often joke, "I didn't get far," but those who knew her would disagree. Marlene's life was rich with love, accomplishments, and memories that reached far beyond her hometown.

Marlene was raised alongside her younger brother, Allyn 'Sonny' Holland. She attended Whittier Elementary School and graduated with high honors from Butte High School in the Class of 1954. She was a first chair member of the Butte High School Band which was awarded a trip to the Rose Bowl. She was the first in her family to attend college, earning a teaching degree, again with high honors, from Western Montana College, which set the stage for her remarkable 43-year career in education that saw her the recipient of the Outstanding Teachers of America Award and the Gold star Award. Marlene also had a passion for music and was an accomplished pianist. She started teaching piano at age twenty to many children, as young as 5 and adults - her oldest student was 95. She continued teaching piano for sixty-three years until health challenges limited her ability to do so five years ago. She cherished hearing from former students—whether they had been her kindergartners or piano pupils—right up until her passing.

A friend wrote to her recently, "I think you're the epitome of 'Butte Tough'. I admire you for how well you have overcome such difficult adversities."

Her passions extended beyond teaching and music. Mom loved 'playing the machines,' fishing (winning the Fran Johnson's fish of the week once!), cooking for family gatherings—her spaghetti and fudge were renowned—and being surrounded by babies, puppies, and flowers—lots and lots of flowers. She was a true blue and gold Montana State Bobcat fan. Mom's handwriting was immaculate, and her talent extended to calligraphy and poetry. She had an eye for detail, always keeping her places of residence beautifully decorated. Holidays were her favorite, especially Christmas, and she had a knack for making each one feel magical. She could always be found playing the piano, filling her home with melodies that now echo in heaven.

In 1956, Marlene married Joe Powers. Though their marriage ended, together they raised four children: Joe, Dan, Alyssa, and Judi. Over the years, Marlene's family grew with the addition of seven grandchildren, three bonus grandchildren, and eight great- grandchildren.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, Irene and Allyn; her cherished daughter, Judi; and her beloved brother Sonny, whom she deeply admired and his wife, Deanna.

She is survived by her children: Joe and his partner, Kerrie Siragusa; Dan and MaryAnn Powers; Alyssa and Terry MacDonald; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Brandon and Bobbi (Kalum and Decklyn), Kori and Katrina (Chandler and Layton), Brian (Briel) and his partner, Laice O' Malley, DaLyn, Jestine (Neela), Michele and Rob, Jordan and Cara (Payton and Paislee); her bonus grandchildren: Cody, Katie, and Kelly Thom; and numerous nieces and nephews. Marlene never knew a stranger and leaves behind many special friends.

Respecting Mom's final wishes, no services will be held. Instead, we ask that you honor her memory by spreading kindness. Listen to or play music while you relax, offer a smile to a stranger, and definitely dress in bright colors and add bling! If you would like to make a donation in Marlene's name, we suggest supporting Safe Space of Butte, Chelsea Bailey Animal Shelter or a charity of your choice.

A special thank you to the compassionate healthcare workers who provided help for Mom throughout the years, Stillwater hospice, and the staff at Copper Ridge for the care they provided to Marlene in her final years.

At the end of every conversation with Mom, her parting words were always the same: 'Be good, kids.'