Holly ended her 24 years snubbing the distraction of three bouts of breast cancer on March 2 at her home surrounded by her family. She began her eternal journey as she lived among us, with class, strength and an appropriate amount of irreverent humor.
Holly was proud of her background of having spent her formative years growing up in East Helena, moving to the big city (Helena) , attending Helena Catholic Central High School and graduating from Carroll College. She followed up with a Masters of Public Administration from the University of Montana to enhance her love and efficiency of all that is political. She was a loyal fan and supporter (academically and athletically) of both great institutions.
Holly worked for a Governor and three U.S. Senators over a 33 year period. Her 25 years with Senator Baucus were especially rewarding in terms of relationships on the job and with groups and individuals throughout the state. She was content to work behind the scenes without personal recognition to assist people throughout the state of Montana to navigate the bureaucracy or otherwise secure appropriate acknowledgement and services from their government.
There was never a question where Holly stood politically. However, the fact that her best friends were of various and diverse political persuasions is a testament to her balance and wisdom.
Holly participated tirelessly in numerous groups and causes in Helena. Of all her efforts and accomplishments she was most proud and loved being involved with the Kay McKenna Youth Program established to honor her good friend, the former Mayor of Helena. She was especially focused on assisting in providing summer parks and recreation experiences for Helena kids, recently including lunches for participants . The program has been operating in the Helena community for several years. Holly specifically expressed a desire that memorials be directed to this great cause with a “way to go, Helena” expression of appreciation for past support. Please consider a financial contribution to what Holly called “a foundation for our kids.”
For more information on Holly’s life please see
https://helenair.com/news/state-and-regional/longtime-baucus-staffer-holly-luck-of-helena-dies-saturday/article_6073b4f2-4daa-5104-a6fe-8a61beee77aa.html
Having avoided personal recognition throughout her life, Holly would be more comfortable not listing the several honor and awards she received for her tireless efforts in the community. However, she was especially proud of being named the YWCA Woman of the Year in Helena in 2014.
Holly is survived by her three brothers Rick (Cindy), Rod (Susan) and Brad (Carla). She had six nieces and nephews whom she loved, a large group of great nieces and nephews and her faithful dog Beau.
Holly lived her life as an example and to support and foster the recognitions of the value and strength of women in our society. She loved the message for women on the old poster of Rosie the Riveter- “We can do it.”. She felt it appropriate that all her pall bearers be women.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bernice and Chester, and special friend Joe Wilson.
Holly was so appreciative of Doctor Tom Weiner, the nurses and great staff at St. Peter’s oncology center.
Holly’s funeral will be held at St. Helena’s Cathedral on Friday at noon. A reception will follow immediately at the Carroll College PE Center.
A private interment will follow in her beloved East Helena.
Robin Folkvord says
Holly was a true warrior and an inspiration to so many others fighting the battle. I’m blessed to have known her. Rest peacefully, Holly.
Jerry Macaraeg says
Holly was my sister by another mother.
She always tested my knowledge, beliefs, commitment and will. She will be missed!
Love you always,
Vade in pace
Matt Kuntz says
Holly was amazing to work with when I first began advocating for Montanans who live with mental illness. From her role in Senator Baucus’s office, she offered me both friendship and no-nonsense political advice. I was deeply grateful for both. I’ve tried to put her guidance to work in the years that have passed and will continue to do so in the future.
Thanks again Holly. May God bless and hold you.
Matt
John & Cherie Dahl says
Holly was a good friend for many years and our thoughts and prayers 🙏 go out to Holly’s family.
Doug Olson says
I had the good fortune to work with Holly when she was the director of the Aging Services (Elderly) program for the State and later on sought her help on issues impacting the elderly when she was a public servant representative for Senator Melcher and Senator Baucus. She was the real deal — she did her best to serve the needs of Montanans in her various roles she undertook. The world could use more people with her talents and dedication. My condolences to her family and peace be with you, Holly. Doug Olson, Minneapolis
Barbara Lasko Hopper says
My sister (Rita Lasko), Holly and Diane McCraig (sp?) were best friends in high school and remained so over the years. I was so very lucky to know Holly. i moved to Denver over 45 years ago but came back to Helena often to see family and friends and Holly and I (and my husband) would try to get together. Many lunches, dinners and — best of all — at her home. Great stories, many laughs and, of course, wine! Sharp as a tack, quick-witted, and funny as hell. A force of nature….made so many contributions to Helena. She never backed down and you knew she had your back. She was the best of the best. I will come to her services to say good-bye. My heart is heavy. Love you, Holly. See you down the road. Barbara Lasko Hopper, Denver, CO
Lisa Kuntz says
Godspeed my friend. I miss the laughter.
Rick O’Connell says
We’ll miss you friend. Hugs to Rick, Rod, Brad and families.
Rick and Jan
Molly Hobgood says
We all are fortunate to have been part of Holly’s world…which was large like her heart and soul. She will be missed.
Our very heartfelt condolences to all who loved her.
Molly and Bill
Ross Cannon says
My sympathy to Holly’s family. Holly was loved by so many people in the Helena Community. She will be greatly missed.
Chris Wethern says
I knew Holly through Joe Wilson, who totally and completely adored her. I respect his opinion!
Sue Morgan says
Rest in power, dearest Holly.
Judy Palmquist says
Although we were out of the country when Holly’s great ride on this Earth came to an end only to be continued on the other side, I am most certain she continues on with the same energy, sunshine, and “can do” attitude she so energetically demonstrated here. I have first- hand knowledge that her irreverent sense of humor even made Max blush a few times.😊 Just to affirm Holly’s ability to humbly and efficiently reach out at just the right time, I recall when she went to bat for all of the leaseholders at Canyon ferry Lake. She and Max made sure we did not have to move off our sites, but could purchase the land instead. Bless you both for that 🙂 Even though we had different political ideas, it was more of a joke between us then anything else. Though I didn’t know Holly well when our son passed, she made a point to come by my downtown shop and just wrap her arms around me for a big hug, a memory that still warms my heart and demonstrates the kind of individual she was and is. Well done Holly, God speed until we meet again.