MISSOULA — Missoula’s oldest resident -- and biggest supporter of the University of Montana -- Emma Lommasson, passed away on Nov. 30 at the age of 107.
Family and friends shared memories and paid tribute at her celebration of life which was held Tuesday at UM. While Emma was known as being a Griz fan through and through, she was an even bigger supporter of each person at the event.
“From the very first time that I met her, and I think this is true for so many people she met throughout her life, you got the sense that she was your biggest fan," University of Montana President Seth Bodner said. He was one of the many who recalled Emma’s loving spirit and brilliant mind.
After attending UM in the late 1920s for undergrad, Emma went back and spent another 86 years teaching, volunteering, and serving various positions within the school. In 2001, a long-standing building on campus was even renamed the “Lommasson Center” in her honor.
In the 90 years that Emma spent invested in the University of Montana she touched countless lives and people crowded into the room -- including family members who traveled all the way from Louisville and Albuquerque to be at the celebration. It was clear how dearly she will be missed.
“And I think I hear the voices of angels whispering ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. Emma, we thank you for the gift of you and all the ways you brought life to so many people'," her granddaughter Sandra said.
The event oncluded in true Emma Lommossan fashion as people stood and sang the University of Montana fight song. People who want to honor Emma’s memory can do so by supporting the Emma B. Lommasson Scholarship through UM.
