Phyllis Irene Cowan

Phyllis Irene "Babe" Applegate Cowan, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on March 23, 2025. She was surrounded by the love of her family, who will forever cherish the warmth, kindness, and joy she brought into their lives.

Born on May 3, 1939, in Deer Lodge, Montana, Phyllis grew up in Avery, Idaho, and Frenchtown, Montana. From an early age, she developed a love for family, community, and the simple joys of life. She married her husband, Scott Michael Cowan, and together they built a life filled with love, adventure, and countless memories.

Phyllis was the devoted mother of Deana Manley (preceded in death), Rita Tiensvold (Bernie), Jim Cowan (Denise), and Ron Cowan (Julie). She adored her grandchildren—Madeline Quinn, Conor Manley, Rianon Burton (Jeff), Krista Brown (Tyler), Corey Tiensvold (Nicole), Heidi Cowan, Scottie Cowan (Katie), and Heather Cowan (Steven)—and cherished the blessing of great-grandchildren—Addy, Benjamin, Lucas, Olivia, Hannah Jo, Aliyah, James Ray and Mason (preceded in death).

Family meant everything to Phyllis, and she found immense joy in the time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her love was often shared through her incredible cooking and baking—especially her famous huckleberry cheesecake, apple butter, and pickled beets. A woman of many talents, she was a 4-H leader for cooking and sewing, a dedicated volunteer with the local fire department, and a hardworking waitress and jewelry clerk at Bob Ward’s.

Phyllis and Scott loved camping in their RV, sitting around campfires, and embracing the great outdoors. These simple moments, surrounded by loved ones, were some of her happiest.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Louise Applegate, and her siblings Bill Applegate, Kenny Applegate, and Darlene Wilson. She is survived by her siblings Jackie Freeze, Ron Applegate, John Applegate, Lanny Applegate, and Kathy Madjic, who will carry forward the love and memories they shared.

A celebration of Phyllis’s life will be held on June 7th at 1pm taking place at the Lolo Community Church. Services are being handled by Hestia Advantage, with support from Lolo Community Church.

Phyllis’s legacy of love, generosity, and warmth will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Hestia Foundation. Please call them at 406-540-4302 to make a donation.