Marjorie Y. Farmer

Obituary for Marjorie Yvonne (Haugrud) Farmer, born November 11, 1931

Marjorie Yvonne Farmer, known to loved ones as Marj, passed away peacefully at age 93 holding her children’s hands, on June 12, 2025, in Billings, Montana. She lived a life of kindness, faith, and connection, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to shine through the family and friends who loved her.

Born on November 11, 1931, in Pelican Rapids, Minnesota, to Morris Oswald Emerson Haugrud and Hazel Egediusen Haugrud, Marj was the eldest of seven children. She grew up on her family's dairy farm during a time when life was shaped by hard work, simple joys, and pioneer Scandinavian family bonds.

Marj would often recall stories of running through the fields barefoot in the summer with her siblings, canning the garden’s bounty with her mother, taking time for coffee and cake mid-morning and mid-afternoon when her father would come in from the barn and fields, ice skating on frozen ponds during the long winters, and sleigh rides to attend a one-room country school. During her high school years, Marj boarded in a one-bed room over a shop in town with her cousin, Beverly. Though she took comfort in their companionship, Marj often felt homesick, longing for the weekends and summers with her family and beloved farm home.

In 1949, Marj graduated from Pelican Rapids High School. She then attended Fargo Business College, where she developed the administrative skills that would guide her career. Stepping into the working world of the 1950’s, she carved a path for herself with determination and grace. She served for ten years as the secretary for the Head of the State of North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, demonstrating her dedication to those who served our country. Later, she brought her expertise to the University of Montana President's Office in Missoula, Montana, where her professionalism and kindness left a lasting impression.

Not only was Marj a highly-skilled capable professional, but she was also incredibly fashionable, embodying the elegance and style of her era. Later, in her 80’s, Marj delighted in donning her stylish red hat and purple chic attire while attending local Ladies’ Red Hat Society lunches.

In 1962, Marj married Alvin C. Farmer, the love of her life. Together, they built a warm and loving home in Billings, Montana, where Al taught earth science at Lewis & Clark Middle School. They raised their two children, Scott and Stacy, instilling in them values of kindheartedness, integrity, and purpose. Marj also shared a love of travel with her family, creating cherished memories and strengthening the close bond they held so dearly. After raising her children, Marj returned to administrative work at Meridian Oil in Billings, where her skills and dedication continued to shine.

In 1985, Marj and Al retired and embarked on new travel adventures together. They also spent many wonderful winters in Arizona, enjoying the sunshine, community, and well-earned relaxation.

Marj was deeply proud of her Scandinavian heritage. In her youth, she often enjoyed time with her dear Grandmother Jensine and many aunts and uncles who had journeyed from Denmark and Norway to make a life in America. In later life, she carried forward the traditions that shaped her family history and delighted in making lefse and lutefisk for Christmas Eve, keeping the spirit of her ancestry alive in the warmth of her kitchen.

Faith was a guiding force in Marj’s life. She was baptized and confirmed at Grove Lake Lutheran Church, a white-steepled country church (ELCA) a mile up the then-gravel road from her family’s dairy farm. Marj also remained a lifelong member of Peace Lutheran Church in Billings.

Beyond her many accomplishments, Marj had a gift for connection. She loved coffee and could strike up a conversation with anyone within 10 feet of her table. With a warm heart and an open ear, she made everyone feel welcome. From an early age, her daughter was her devoted coffee companion. Over countless cups, they shared laughter, stories, and a lifetime of conversations, never leaving a word unspoken or a drop of coffee remaining.

Although Marj cherished many roles throughout her life, the ones closest to her heart were those of mother and grandmother. She found immense joy in nurturing her family, offering love, guidance, and unwavering support. Her home was a place of warmth and harmony, whether it was brewing coffee or baking favorite treats, sharing life lessons, or simply being present with a listening ear, Marj embodied the essence of family and devotion.

In her twilight years, Marj enjoyed life with Al by her side, treasuring each moment with love and gratitude. She would always say, "I love my life," a testament to the happiness she found in the people, experiences, and simple joys that filled her days.

Marj loved her siblings dearly, cherishing the lifelong rapport they shared. Among them, she held an especially close kinship with her sister Phyllis, throughout her life; their bond was filled with shared laughter, support, and countless treasured moments.

Marj is survived by her six siblings: Phyllis Johnsrud (Don), Lyle Haugrud (Phyllis, deceased), Marilyn Kuhlman (Dan, deceased), Joyce Weller (Bruce), and Daryl Haugrud (Colette). She was preceded in death by her precious brother, who was her closest sibling in age, Wesley Haugrud, who passed away as a teenager.

Marj is also survived by her children, Scott Farmer (Bonnie) and Stacy Tenney (Scott), and leaves behind three cherished grandchildren—Scott, Nathan, and Olivia—as well as one great-granddaughter, baby Luna. In addition, she is lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, all of whom carry forward her kindness, warmth, and generous spirit.

Marj was preceded in death by her loving husband, who passed away in November 2024. Their devotion to one another was unwavering, and their shared years were filled with love, laughter, and the kind of tolerance and partnership that stands the test of time.

In accordance with Marj's wishes, no public funeral will be held. Her cremated remains will be laid to rest at Yellowstone National Cemetery in Laurel, Montana, alongside her dutiful husband who was a Korean War veteran, where the family will gather to pay homage and celebrate their life together. Marj will be deeply missed by her family who will continue to cherish her memory and honor her legacy.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Grove Lake Church at 17511 470th Street, Pelican Rapids, MN, 56572, or Peach Lutheran Church at 1301 Avenue D, Billings, MT, 59102, or St. Johns United Giving at https://www.stjohnsunited.org, in her memory.

Marj’s family is deeply grateful to everyone at St. John’s United in Billings for the compassionate care provided to our mother. Thank you for making her journey peaceful and for being a source of strength to her and our family.

https://www.stjohnsunited.org