Margaret Alice Monforton Haugland Blair

Margaret Alice Monforton Haugland Blair

Margaret Alice Monforton Haugland Blair passed peacefully and unexpectedly on March 15, 2025, at home in Anaconda, Montana. Margaret, the fourth child of Ernest and Nan (Malin) Monforton, was born in Bozeman, Montana, on July 6, 1929. Margaret attended and graduated from Bozeman Rosary School.

While on the family ranch Margaret learned how to work hard and gained an everlasting love and appreciation for animals, especially horses.

Participating in 4H and showing registered Hereford cattle at stock shows and fairs was part of Margaret’s cherished childhood memories. Margaret enjoyed rodeos and participated in barrel racing.

When on the family ranch near Gallatin Gateway, she met and later married a handsome cowboy, Clinton Haugland, on September 15, 1947. Their four surviving children, all born in Bozeman, include Eileen Holman, Pete Haugland, Laura Andersen, and Dennis Haugland. She was also blessed with five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Margaret divorced Clinton after 30 years and later married Don Blair. Margaret is survived by two brothers, Tom Monforton and Gerald Monforton, and sisters-in-laws Arlene Haugland, Pat Monforton, Betty Jo Monforton, Joan Monforton, Georgia Monforton, and Elaine Monforton. She was preceded in death by her parents, Earnest and Nan Monforton, sisters Didi (Don) Whitehead, Marie (Bob) Schilling, Helen (Fred) Howard, brothers Remi, Joe, Donald, and Robert Monforton, and sister-in-law Mary Ellen Monforton.

Margaret was an amazing seamstress and frequently made and patched clothes for her family and friends. Margaret very much enjoyed and was fully accomplished at baking pies and various breads. Many of her baked goods were prepared and always available for sharing with friends and family. She loved large family gatherings and often coordinated preparation of holiday meals. Margaret looked forward to visits from her family, especially her children and grandchildren. She loved to visit and reminisce about their activities and endeavors. Along with her culinary talents she had a natural interior decorating flair. Displaying pictures, art, and family memoirs in her home was an often-appreciated gift.

Participating in senior citizen activities was a favorite pastime for Margaret. She especially enjoyed pinochle and other games until the day before her passing.

A celebration of life for Margaret will be held at Pete and Margaret Haugland’s home near Fairmont Hot Springs on July 6, 2025.