March 6th, 1942 - February 6th, 2024
Marilyn, Mamie, Annie, or Granny as she was affectionally called, was a joyful spirit!
Our Mamie was elegant with a sense of style that radiated from her whole being.
She was a fabulous dancer and, always the cheerleader. She embodied grace and grit simultaneously. Few understood the complete contradiction of her beautiful soul. However, those in her inner circle, experienced: love, unwavering loyalty, riveting conversations, and lots of fun and laughter. She was the original tom boy, tough as nails and known as the fastest runner in Great Falls, the lovely Miss Montana, a savvy businesswoman, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and devoted daughter, all wrapped up in one. I can’t imagine ever knowing a more courageous soul. Marilyn was born on March 6t, 1942, in Great Falls, Montana to Ann and Ray McHenry.
Her humble beginnings drove her to a life of excellence known only to a true Jedi Master.
Marilyn was REAL. She loved to poke fun at her surroundings as the queen of roasts. Her raw honesty was sometimes misinterpreted as judgement but really, she was just being real in a world of people afraid to be themselves. Her truth telling was rare and refreshing and was, in part, what drew people from all walks of life to her. In her youth, she dedicated 4 hours a day to dancing and fulfilled her desire to be the best. She took solace in her personal relationship with God. So devoted, she contemplated joining the convent until, while both were attending Montana State University, the love of her life, Hans Fedge, swept her off her feet. As soulmates and best friends, they enjoyed the grand adventure of a life, and an unrivaled love affair for over 60 years. Daily demonstrating for their two daughters, Joie de vivre. Marilyn’s favorite time in life was spent exploring California with Hans and their young daughters.
She returned to Montana to raise her family, closer to family and begin her career in high-end fashion. She loved fashion and understood its value. As the co-owner of her boutique, McHenry’s, she traveled annually, to NYC where she was well respected as a buyer with a visionary pulse on fashion. She mentored people using clothes as her vessel. Elevating women by helping them know their inner beauty and enhancing their outer beauty one cashmere sweater at a time. She worked 6 days a week at McHenry’s and then rolled up her sleeves as a leader in Junior League, Business and Professional Women’s Foundation, and PTA, to name a few. Continually learning and becoming, in 2019, Marilyn was honored to be a contributing author in a #1 bestselling book on Amazon. Marilyn rooted on the underdog and looked out for the vulnerable, giving gifts of pretty or practical things where needed. She reminded us to be humble and “Be kind, for everyone you know is fighting a hard battle.”
Marilyn’s creativity was limitless. She created beauty in everything she did using “Marilyn’s Magical Touch”. While living in Colorado, her creativity shown through in all aspects but especially, her gardens. Oh, my how she adored Spring! All year long, she counted the days until the first bloom appeared. Her flowers were so spectacular, people passing by would pause in awe to take it all in. Her home was equally as welcoming and personal, overflowing with sweet treats, artistic decor and perhaps the best hot chocolate on the planet. She loved nature and made sure her family appreciated the magic of God’s handiwork in every sunset and sea breeze.
Marilyn loved her girls with all her heart and did everything in her power to provide the best life possible for them. She taught them the art of balancing femininity, intelligence, and courage and guided them to experience life fully with open eyes and open hearts. Her home was alive with music. In fact, we thought everyone had biweekly dance parties in their living room like we did. She kept things interesting being a bit of a troublemaker too, which produced material for her superior storytelling. When her kids where little, she told them the ice cream truck was a nice man who drove around town to brighten our days by playing us music. We jokingly nicknamed her “Gory Granny” for her love of horror movies. Granny was quite the comedian. Every interaction was laced with laughter and insight, inspiring individual thinking.
We were indeed blessed to have shared this life with such a vibrant soul. To have frolicked in the fields watching clouds change shape and the first robin usher in Spring. We are grateful your suffering is over; you are reunited with Dad in heaven and are dancing up a storm. Ti amo!
“And lo, I am with you always” was a Bible verse she referenced to comfort us in troubled times. We look to it now, in its layered meaning, to comfort us in her physical absence. Remember, the next time you long to feel Marilyn’s presence, just order a coke or a piece of pie, she will be right there with you in spirit.
Marilyn was recently preceded in death by her beloved husband, Hans Fedge; parents, and sisters. She is survived by her daughters and son in laws: Kirsten (Tim) Felton, Kelly (Bratton) Fedge DuBose and cherished grandchildren: Victoria and Joe Felton, and Bratton and Hans DuBose, as well as her many other friends and extended family.
A celebration of life for Marilyn and Hans is being planned for this Summer. Until then, our family wholeheartedly thanks you for sharing your juicy and heartwarming stories about Marilyn to: Kelly Fedge DuBose, 11284 Bridger Canyon Road, Bozeman, MT 59715
