Gordon Neal Haugen

In Loving Memory of Gordon Haugen

Gordon, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on February 24th, just days after celebrating his 87th birthday on Valentine’s Day. Born on February 14th, 1939, in Billings, MT, he lived a life shaped by deep devotion to family, pride in his Montana roots, and a lifelong love of the outdoors.

After earning his master’s degree in Fisheries Biology in 1969, Gordon dedicated his professional life to the Federal Forest Service as a Fisheries Biologist. His work reflected not only his expertise but also his deep respect for the land, waters, and wildlife that defined who he was. Conservation was not just a career for him, it was a calling that aligned perfectly with the way he lived.

As a young man, Gordon played center for the Montana State Bobcats from 1958 to 1962, forming friendships and memories that stayed with him throughout his life. His support for the Bobcats never faded, and he remained an enthusiastic member of the Bobcat Booster Club for decades.

Whether wading into Rock Creek with a fly rod in hand, walking crisp autumn fields in search of pheasants, or carving down winter slopes as a dedicated skier, Gordon found his truest peace in nature. These were more than pastimes, they were places where he felt most connected to the world and to himself.

Above all, Gordon cherished his family and friends. He was the steady presence, the storyteller, the spark behind adventures big and small. Holidays, fishing trips, ski weekends, and summer barbecues became treasured memories because he was at the heart of them.

Gordon is survived by his devoted wife, Beverley; his children, Kim and Matt Howell, Jim and Marti Haugen; his grandchildren, Josh and Ben Howell, Shea and Ashlynn Haugen; and countless friends who will forever carry a piece of his spirit.

Those who knew him will remember his kindness, his generosity, his commitment to conservation, and his pride in being a Bobcat. His favorite waters, fields, and mountain trails will never feel quite the same—yet they will always echo with his presence.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 PM, April 18th, 2026 at Dahl Funeral Services, Bozeman MT. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Ducks Unlimited, Trout Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, or the Bobcat Booster Club, honoring his lifelong passions for the outdoors, conservation, and Montana State athletics.

May his memory be a blessing, and may we honor him by living fully, loving deeply, and embracing the beauty of the world—just as he did.