Marian Louise Icopini

In Loving Memory of Marian Louise Icopini

1936 — 2024

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to our cherished matriarch, Marian Louise Icopini, who departed this world on Feb. 10, 2024, at the age of 87, after a short illness.

Marian was born on March 26, 1936, to Ray and Louise Kimball. The third of four children, the family lived in Victor, Montana. When she was 5, they moved to Hysham, where her father built a dairy and both parents later worked as teachers in the Hysham school. She grew up in the midst of a closeknit community and large extended family. Her “Kimball cousins” remained special to her all of her life.

When she was in high school, she entered a sewing contest sponsored by the National Wool Growers Assoc. and won the state’s junior division. She went on to compete in Chicago and was awarded a college scholarship. However, Marian had other dreams for her life and a few months later met a tall, dark and handsome farmer, Ernie Icopini, who stole her heart. They married on July 24, 1954, after she graduated from high school. Their first child was born the following year. Nine more babies would follow. How she loved babies! She could soothe any baby and her favorite place was in a rocking chair with a baby tucked under her chin. Marian and Ernie adored children, whether they were sharing a funny family memory or greeting a grandchild walking through their door — nothing could light them up quite like a child.

One of Marian’s most endearing and enduring qualities was her genuine, open-hearted hospitality. Caring for and giving to those going through difficult times was second nature for her. She loved to bake and was known for her rolls — which were affectionately called “Granny rolls.” She delivered thousands (no exaggeration) for families and events in the area. There were always homemade treats in her kitchen — and her family relished the fact that there were no restrictions on when to eat or how many! Her home (kitchen table, especially) was a place of warmth and love, where no visitor was ever turned away. Many of her children’s friends referred to her as their “second mom.” Her door was always open, and her heart was always ready to welcome them with open arms and a bright smile.

Marian and Ernie were pillars of their community, always serving in various roles. While raising their 10 children, she gave of her time in so many ways: religious education teacher, PTA, 4-H leader and judge, PCCW (Parish Council of Catholic Women), Chairman of the School Board, W.I.F.E., Women's Club, and many more.

As a younger adult, Marian enjoyed being active through her bowling league and taking painting classes. In her later years, she had so much fun with the Red Hatters of Treasure County! She loved dressing the part and touring interesting sites around eastern Montana with many of her lifelong friends.

Her unwavering faith in God was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her through every triumph and trial. She found solace in prayer, drawing strength from her deep-rooted beliefs and sharing her spiritual wisdom with those around her. Marian wanted everyone to know that no matter what, God loved them always. She was very active in Cum Christo, serving on leadership teams and preparing many talks. Wanting to take her faith and lay ministry to a deeper level, Marian attended classes and intensive theological training through the Mercy Center, becoming a Certified Spiritual Director. She participated in numerous prayer and religious book club groups throughout her life, up to the time of her passing.

Through charity and acts of love, Marian lived her life with a true servant’s heart. She also had the wisdom to know the value of slowing down and settling in with a good book and hot cup of tea. Marian leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Though she may have departed this earthly realm, her spirit will live on in the cherished memories and the countless lives she touched.

Survived by Ernie, her husband of 69 years; 10 children: Perry, Nancy, Lori (Terrance) Casey, Dana (Paul) Sievers, Brent (Brenda), Dale (Amber), Todd, Gary (Pat), Bart (Amber) and Dean; 25 grandchildren: Ryan (Jodi), Ginny (John) Layshock, Tiffany; Gina (Tom) Tarnacki, Jacole Douglas, Angela (Miles) Babcock, Mitch (Chelsea) Douglas; Erin (Sean) Leistritz, Donovan (Kate) Casey; Bridget (Andy) Merry, Jayme (Patrick) Nelson; Kaitlyn, Joe; Eric, Nick (Tara), Matt, step-granddaughter Taylor Schaak; Lewis, Tom; Harper, Morgan, Nolan, Kaleb; Shayna Welch, Sam, and Rose; and 30 great-grandchildren. Survived also by her brother, Bill and sister-in-law, Joan Kimball.

Preceded in death by her parents; brother, Fred; sister-in-law, Colleen; sister, Harriett Hilario; daughter-in-law, Barbara; granddaughter, Sara Casey; step-grandson, Shad Schaak, and great-granddaughter, Chezni.

The Rosary and Vigil will be at 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 18, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. Mass will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 19, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hysham.

Memorials may be made to St. Joseph’s Church, P.O. Box 226, Hysham, MT 59038 or to a charity of your choice.