Mary Elizabeth (Fountain) LaRowe

Mary Elizabeth Fountain LaRowe, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, teacher and friend, age 99, died Sunday, March 18, 2018 at the Missouri River Medical Center in Fort Benton, from age related factors following many years of declining health.

Born August 4, 1918 in Glendive, Montana, Mary was the daughter of George and Mamie Fountain. She joined her sister and brother, Helen and Arthur Snow in this pioneer horse ranching family. Mary attended Circle Public Schools, graduating in 1936. As a 50 year old adult, never afraid of a challenge, she earned a Bachelors of Science in Education from Eastern Montana College.

Mary married Mark LaRowe in Circle on November 12, 1938. They were married for 71 years. Mark and Mary were blessed with four children; Mary Bernesse, Miles, MarCo, and Major. The family lived in both Circle and Roberts, Montana.

Mary owned and managed the Gladstone Hotel, Motel, and Dinette in Circle. Her professional teaching career began during World War II, when she taught business courses at Circle High School. Following her formal college education, she served as the business education instructor at Roberts, Montana High School as well as the school librarian. Mary was a successful business woman and an accomplished dearly loved teacher.

Known as a kind and generous woman, Mary’s generosity touched literally thousands of people. She spent much of her life as a caregiver and caretaker to family members while working and raising her children. Full of energy, she was an avid reader, having a personal library of hundreds of books. She was a life-long learner and promoted education at all times. Mary had countless friends through her varied activities and careers.

She was a resoundingly good cook and was renowned for her pies. Her hospitality and meals were enjoyed by many.

She is survived by daughter, Mary Bernesse; sons, Miles (Elizabeth) of Red Lodge, MT, MarCo of Roberts, MT, Major (Heather) of Center Sandwich, NH; 10 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, George and Mamie Fountain; her husband, Mark LaRowe; sister, Helen Jamison; brother, Art Snow; and son-in-law, David Meissner.

Interment will be at Fort Benjamin Harrison in Helena, MT. A Memorial Service will be held in June 2018.

The family wishes to thank the Missouri River Medical Center for their loving care. 

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