Marian Leone Carlson Myxter, 87

Marian Leone Carlson Myxter died July 12, 2010, in Fort Collins, Colo., at age 87, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer s disease. Marian Carlson was born Nov. 5, 1922, to parents Andrew Carlson and Inez Bager Carlson in Minot, N.D. Her father died shortly after she was born and she and her older brother were raised by their mother. As a schoolgirl, she was a gifted student and participated in a variety of activities. She was given the nickname Butch by her classmates because she was athletic, feisty and outgoing. Following high school, Marian enrolled at Minot State College in pursuit of a teaching degree. There, she met Morris Mike Myxter of nearby Balfour, N.D., who was also studying to become a teacher. Their courtship and Mike s studies were put on hold while he served in the Pacific Theater during World War II. After Mike s return, he and Marian were married in Minot on June 15, 1946. The Myxters lived in many places during their early years together, including Washburn, N.D., Medford, Ore., Polson and Scobey, before moving to Great Falls in 1953. Great Falls became their settled base where they lived for nearly 40 years, had lengthy teaching careers, enjoyed camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities, and raised their only son. They developed many wonderful friendships. In 1966, Marian and Mike purchased a piece of property on Lake Five near Glacier National Park. They parked a brand-new mobile home referred to as the instant cabin there in 1968; and from that point the Myxters were able to fully reap the benefits of the teaching profession by spending entire summers at the lake over portions of four decades. Marian was a sparkplug of a personality and a social butterfly who could raise the energy level of any room she entered. Her laugh and smile were infectious. She had a kind heart and a strong, determined will. She was a terrific wife and mother, and touched many people over the course of her life. Marian is survived by her grateful son, Andy, and Carol Myxter, and grandchildren, Samantha and Alex Myxter, all of Fort Collins. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Ralph Carlson; husband, Morris; and several other relatives and friends. No services are planned; her cremated remains will be taken to Lake Five and other favorite places. Please visit www.allnutt.com to sign the family guest book and send condolences.