Loran Mahlum, 51

Loran Mahlum, of East Helena and Wolf Point, died early on the morning of April 30, 2006, on the shore of Fort Peck Lake northwest of Jordan.

Loran was born Jan. 26, 1955, in Wolf Point to Willard and Malisse Mahlum. He graduated from Wolf Point High School in 1973, the same year he became the first wrestler from Wolf Point to win a state championship.

Loran made his living as an independent contractor. He started out building houses in Wolf Point with his brother, Gary, and then in the early 1980s he had an oil field service company for several years. He eventually got back into the construction field and lived in Lakeside, Fort Peck and Helena.

The great event in Loran's life was in 1983 when his son, Norven, was born. Loran constantly was planning things that he could do with his son. Outdoor sports were what they enjoyed, and it was on a fishing trip with Norv that Loran passed on from this life, doing what he loved with the person he loved most.

Loran was a passionate, resourceful man, always exploring new ideas to help his friends. He was a truly unforgettable experience.

Loran is survived by his son, Norven Mahlum, of Belgrade; his mother, Malisse, and his brother, Gary, both of Wolf Point. Loran also leaves a special friend, Rene' of Helena.

His father, Willard, preceded him in death.

A service to celebrate Loran's life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 6, at First Lutheran Church in Wolf Point.

Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements.