Marsha Kay Achermann

Marsha Kay Achermann, 70, of Darby, Montana passed away on July 13, 2025, surrounded by the love of her life and their children.

Born on December 30, 1954, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Lowell and Arelene Thompson, Marsha spent her childhood in Nebraska and Minnesota, where she grew up with her siblings and graduated from Staples High School. Her spirit was mighty—nurturing, determined, and endlessly creative.

On June 30, 1975, Marsha married her soulmate, Michael Achermann, and together they built a life full of laughter, hard work, adventure, and unwavering love. They raised four children—Susie, Sarah, Heidi, and Josh— within the communities of Leader and Motley, Minnesota, and later relocated to the beautiful Bitterroot Valley in 2005, where they built their forever home.

Marsha had a lifelong passion for learning and sharing knowledge. In 1995, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Bemidji State University and went on to teach in Minnesota, Texas, and Montana. Her students were deeply impacted by her patience, kindness, and ability to make each child feel seen and valued. Teaching was not just a profession for her—it was a calling and the kids that needed the most help were her specialty.

Marsha’s love of learning extended beyond the classroom. She earned her CDL and proudly drove a water truck, working side-by-side with Mike at job sites across the country. No job was ever too tough for Marsha—her grit and grace carried her through every challenge of life.

A talented seamstress and gifted crafter, Marsha poured her heart into every creation she made—hand woven rugs, coasters, dryer balls, dish towels, mittens and other handcrafted treasures she proudly shared at local craft fairs and farmers markets. Her creativity was matched only by her attention to detail and joy of visiting with customers.

More than anything, Marsha enjoyed her time spent with family, never missing a gathering and usually one of the last to leave.  She was the comfort in hard times, the biggest cheerleader to those she loved, and an inspiration to others, especially those battling cancer along with her.  She leaves behind a legacy of strength, compassion, and determination that will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Marsha is survived by her beloved husband of 50 years, Mike Achermann; her children Susie (Joe) Brichacek, Sarah (Jason) Moen, Heidi Duerr, and Josh (Sara) Achermann; her grandchildren Benjamin (Devon), James (Caitlin), Josie (Jacob), McKaylynn, Bradynn, Holdynn, Samuel, Jorja, and Jake; and her great-grandchildren Ronanne, Audrey, Clay, Nathan, and Vanessa.

She is also survived by her mother, Arelene Thompson, and siblings Dee Thompson, Jim (Vickie) Thompson, Brenda (Tim) Huwe, and Dan Thompson.

Marsha was preceded in death by her father, Lowell Thompson, and her father-in-law, Peter Achermann.

She will be lovingly remembered for her endless creativity, fierce determination, quick wit, deep empathy, and the positive, powerful strength with which she faced life and its many challenges. Her presence lit up every room, and her absence will be felt profoundly.

A graveside service will be held on August 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Darby Lone Pine Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:30 pm at 100 Sunrise Drive, Darby, MT—a day to remember, honor, and celebrate the incredible woman she was.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Marsha’s memory to Montana Cancer Center – Providence St. Patrick (500 W Broadway St, 2nd Floor, Missoula, MT 59802).

Online condolences may be shared at dalyleachchapel.com.