Joseph "Joe" O'Loughlin

In Loving Memory of Joe O’Loughlin
January 28, 1931 – June 25, 2025

Joseph “Joe” O’Loughlin passed away peacefully on June 25th, surrounded by his family. His loving presence and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Joe was born on January 28, 1931, in Missoula, Montana, the youngest of seven children of Carl and Jennie O’Loughlin. Growing up in a close-knit faith-filled family helped shape the loving, kind and generous person he became.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Joe was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Dick (Carolyn), Jim (Pat), Kay Dumont, Flo Sinclair (Duncan), Jack, and Jane Preuninger (Buck); his infant son David; grandson Peter; and his beloved wife Margy, with whom he shared nearly 64 years of marriage.

Joe is survived by his children Dan (Becky Halvorson), Katie Lynch (Chris), and Jenny Morey (Eric); grandchildren Emily Spenla (Greg), Henry Lynch, Grace Crawford (Justin), Leah O’Loughlin, Maya O’Loughlin and Shannon Pohle (Robby); and great-grandchildren Ben, Abe, and Miriam Spenla, and Robby and Lily Pohle. He also leaves behind extended family and many friends, all of whom enriched his life and were cherished in return.

Joe’s warmth and kindness extended far beyond family. He had a rare gift of listening and truly connecting with people. To know Joe was to be deeply seen and heard, and he had a way of making everyone feel loved because he genuinely loved them.  Joe made the world a better place simply by being in it, and those lucky enough to cross his path were better for it.

In his youth, Joe was a standout athlete and was selected to play in the East-West Shrine football game. He served in the U.S. Navy, earned a degree from the University of Montana, and built a successful career in the food service industry. As Vice President of the 4Bs restaurant chain, he led with quiet integrity, always ready to help—no matter the task or title. In addition to his professional work, Joe devoted many years to volunteer service, quietly offering his time and support to local organizations.

Joe met Margy in Yellowstone National Park in 1955, and they married two years later in Rush City, Minnesota. Together, they built a life filled with love and family, moving across Montana with Joe’s work before settling in Bozeman and later returning to Missoula. Their home near the University of Montana was always open and a favorite gathering spot.  Whether it was a holiday, Griz game, or just a weekend visit, Joe and Margy were always eager to share their warmth and hospitality, making everyone feel welcome and loved.

The family would like to thank the dedicated staff at Johanna Shores and Bright Star aides, who cared for Joe and Margy in recent years, as well as the team at the VA Medical Center for their steady and respectful support.

Joe was a man who lived a full and meaningful life, touched countless lives, and leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, humility, and service. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and he will be missed more than words can express.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 1st at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Roseville, MN at 11am with an hour visitation prior. 

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