Lynn Christine Stocking, 62

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Lynn Christine Stocking, 62, on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2014. Lynn passed at home from complications of pneumonia associated with pancreatic cancer. She was surrounded by family.

Born in Missoula, Montana on Dec. 10, 1951 to Anastasia and Douglas Follett, Lynn grew up in the woods on the shores of Whitefish Lake with her parents and three sisters. She was the definition of the firstborn and her three sisters followed her lead without question.

Lynn attended school in Columbia Falls and Whitefish. After graduation from high school she began her post-secondary career in education at the University of Montana receiving her Bachelor of Science in business education in 1974, and eventually her master’s degree in education. Lynn’s distinguished 37-year career as an educator and eventual leader began at the Missoula County Public Schools Vo-Tech as an instructor in the Business Technology Department, adding department chair before evolving to the associate dean position. During her long tenure with Missoula College, as a tireless worker and advocate for students, Lynn was integral in the evolution of Missoula College from a county Vo-Tech Center to its current mission providing the foundation for advanced academic achievement. Her influence extended beyond the Missoula campus and impacted education across the Montana University System. 

Although she was wholly dedicated to the college and her career, above all she kept her family the closest to her heart, giving, sharing and laughing with them. She loved her shoes (especially buying them on sale), a good coffee (double-shot breve) and art (anything with an old red truck). Lynn was a generous person by nature, giving of her time wholeheartedly and without hesitation. Over the years she was a very active member of various community service groups throughout Missoula.  

She is survived by her husband Tom Stocking, Missoula; son Geoff (Nicole) Stocking and grandson Sebastian, Great Falls; parents Anastasia and Doug Follett, Whitefish; sisters Jen (Bill) Follett McCaw, Missoula; Audrey (Michael) McNally, Nelson, British Columbia, Karen (Hal Bennett) Follett, Whitefish; mother-in-law Bobbie Stocking; brother-in-law Glen (Joy) Stocking; sister-in-law Judy Doxtater; nieces Sarah, Sydney, Riley, Austyn and Krista; and nephews Jeremy and Jed. 

There will be a celebration of life from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2014 at the Broadway Inn Conference Center located at 1609 West Broadway, Missoula. Please come to share your stories and memories. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Lynn’s name to Partners In Home Care Hospice.