Barbara Mulholland passed away peacefully on September 29, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 8, 1926, in Great Falls, MT to Hollie and Etta (Bowman) Ellis. She spent her formative years in Great Falls and Fort Benton, where she graduated from high school.
She met and married Tom Mulholland in Helena in 1950. They lived there briefly before moving to Whitefish, where Tom was the golf pro at the Whitefish Lake Golf Course. This was a busy time for her, as she helped Tom run the golf course while being mom to 3 little girls. They later moved to Columbia Falls before moving to Butte, Tom’s hometown, when he accepted the position as golf pro at the Butte Country Club. Two sons and another daughter joined the family after that move, making it an even half dozen.
For the next 15 years she worked side by side with Tom, managing the pro shop, cart house and driving range. She excelled at controlling the chaos of raising 6 children while helping her husband run the business. She was the friendly, smiling face of the country club. She knew all the members by name and was well loved by all. She made many long-lasting friendships during that time.
Following her years at the golf course, she had a variety of jobs before she began working at the county assessor’s office. She thrived in that position, where she truly enjoyed her co-workers and the opportunity to help those in the Butte community. She was elected as Silver Bow County Auditor and served several terms before her retirement.
Barbara had an incredibly close bond with her five siblings, and following her retirement, embarked on new adventures with them. They affectionately referred to themselves as “The Six Pack” and traveled around the country visiting family and friends. They looked forward to the annual family reunion known as Camp Yoo Hoo, held every summer on Hungry Horse Reservoir. Barbara also loved hosting her family and friends every Fourth of July.
She wintered with her siblings in AZ and returned to MT for the summer, enjoying golf in both locations. Her love of golf was legendary. Even after she was no longer able to golf, she enjoyed watching golf on TV up until her final days.
Left to cherish her memory are her children: Maureen (Mike) Young, Aurora, CO; Tricia (Tony) King, Kalispell; Cathy Moran, Bellingham, WA; Tom (Amy), Denver, Mary (Rob) Carpender, Denver and Dan (Sue Ankeny), Butte. She is also survived by 18 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Tom, parents, siblings, and son-in-law, Bootie Moran. She had a special place in her life and heart for her niece and namesake, Barbara Hansen (Barbara #2), Conroe, TX. Barbara #2 visited her frequently in AZ, and they were double trouble – spending time shopping, laughing and going to the casinos.
Barbara maintained her positive, bright and sunny disposition until her final breath. Her children feel incredibly blessed and are overwhelmed with love and gratitude for the good fortune of having her as their mother. The family wishes to extend their thanks and appreciation to the staff of both Big Sky Assisted Living, and Senior Solutions/Hospice, for their kind and compassionate care.
Memorials may be sent to The Butte Food Bank, 1019 E 2nd St., Butte, MT 59701 (www.thebuttefoodbank.org).
The Rite of Committal will be held at 2 pm on September 13, at Holy Cross Cemetery, 4700 Harrison Ave, Butte, with a cocktail reception being held from 4 -7 at the Butte Country Club, 3400 Elizabeth Warren Ave., Butte.
Please visit axelsonfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence or share a memory of Barbara.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Laura and her family.
Jon and Theresa McBride says
So sorry for your loss. Even though it was expected, it is still not easy. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Misty Piercy says
Randy and I are so sorry for your loss. We know how much she means to you Scoob along with your family. Our thoughts are with you.
Jan Barkell says
Scoob, so sorry for your loss She’s agreat fun person and a hell of a golfer with a great smile and laugh ⛳️🏌🏾♀️🫶. God bless. No excuse for not getting another ACE with your mom Angel…
Rachel McCracken says
sending love and hugs during this difficult time.
Cheryll Miller says
Growing up in Butte and being good friends with Tricia I remember making root beer and Mrs Mulholland always being so very kind. It was always a pleasure being at the Mulholland’s home.
Laurie M Holland says
Cathy, Tori, Janelle and Marcus, I am so sorry to hear the loss of your mother and grandma. I met her a couple of times and she was so beautif
Laurie M Holland says
sorry got cut off before finished. beautiful both inside and out. She lived a long happy life, you will miss her though she was a wonderful mother and grandma. Hope all is well with everyone. I miss seeing you Cathy, so sorry about Bootie. He was a great guy all around.
Marnie Prigge says
Oh I’m so sorry to learn of your mom’s passing. Deepest sympathy- She was incredible! I’ve so enjoyed meeting her girls and of course Scoobs is a special son. All who knew Barb were blessed.
Barb McDougall Collins says
Dear Tom and family, I’m so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. I always remember her as being such a kind person. May your good memories bring you peace. Prayers for the family.
Debbie McCaul-Kotan says
Tricia and family
I am so very sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing.
She was a beautiful lady that always had a smile on her face that seemed to radiate her love for life. May fond memories of her fill you with joy and love.. hold them close to your heart I through these difficult time ahead. All God’s blessings