C. Dave Managhan

Dave Managhan, 80, passed away peacefully at home on July 15, 2024, with his loving wife Lois and children Scott and Lisa by his side after a long battle with Parkinson’s.

Dave Managhan, 80, passed away peacefully at home on July 15, 2024, with his loving wife Lois and children Scott and Lisa by his side after a long battle with Parkinson’s.  

Dave was born in Kalispell on Jan. 22, 1944, to Carl and Marguerite Managhan.  After graduating from Flathead High School, Dave attended Northern Montana College in Havre, obtaining his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Elementary Education.  He also earned the Elementary Administration Endorsement from the University of Montana in Missoula.  

While attending college in Havre, Dave met his best friend and soulmate, Lois LaCroix, and they were married for 58 years.  They were excited to welcome their two children and have many happy memories together traveling, golfing, fishing, camping, and spending time with friends together as the “Fabulous Four.”  

They were thrilled when the three grandchildren, Courtney, Jon and Anthony joined the family.  Dave loved all holidays; decorating the house for Christmas and lighting 4th of July fireworks were his favorites.  

The LaCroix family farm in Havre was a special place for Dave, and he spent many of his summers helping on the farm.  Dave was an avid golfer and spent much of his retirement golfing with Lois.

Dave began his 31-year career in education in 1967 with the Columbia Falls school district in Martin City, Hungry Horse, and Columbia Falls.  

Dave’s love for his students was apparent to all who knew him, many times spending recess playing dodgeball, flag football, and other games on the playground.  Dave coached basketball, football, and little league baseball and cherished the relationships built over the years.  

After his retirement in 1998, Dave continued his involvement in education by mentoring new superintendents and principals via the School of Education at the University of Montana. 

Dave was also involved in the community as a member of the Moose Lodge, Lions, Jaycees, and board officer for Buffalo Hills Golf Course, among other activities. Dave is survived by his wife Lois, son Scott Managhan of Kalamazoo, MI, daughter Lisa (Eric) Woirhaye of Missoula, MT, grandchildren Courtney (Chris) Croonenberghs; Jonathan Gilley; Anthony Gilley, siblings Phyllis Lynch; Jerry Managhan; Gary (Val) Managhan, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Marguerite Managhan, in-laws Bob and Osa LaCroix, and sister Ruth Daley.

Funeral services will be held at Victory Baptist Church, 1830 Highway 35 Kalispell  on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 11 a.m.  A reception will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dave’s memory to the Columbia Falls Academic Foundation, P.O. Box 1259 Columbia Falls, MT 59912.

Friends are encouraged to visit our website at buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolences for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory caring for the family.