History Department Remembers Longtime Supporter

Ann Boone passed away peacefully at her home in Missoula on December 15, 2023, at the age of 82. Ann died of complications of a long-term respiratory illness.

Ann considered herself a "Pearl Harbor" baby as she was born December 8, 1941 in Claremont, New Hampshire. She was the third child of Frances and Helen McLaughlin. Her siblings included Mary Kinson (deceased), James McLaughlin of London, Tennessee, and Kathleen (KC) McLaughlin of Eugene, Oregon. Ann attended the University of Connecticut, graduating in 1963. While in college, Ann became active in politics, an interest she held throughout her life. She met Thomas H. Boone, who she married on August 8, 1964. Ann is also survived by her two boys, William H. Boone, and Jeffrey T. Boone, and their spouses Maria and Renee. In addition, they have a foster son, Son Nguyen, a Vietnamese refugee, who was brought into their home in 1983 and is married to Viha. Her beloved grandchildren are Maxymillian, Matthew, Hannah (Bill and Maria), Charley, Georgia (Jeff and Renee), Andrew, and Anthony (Son and Viha).

Ann also attended the University of Montana where she worked on her master's degree in history. Ann loved the Missoula community and was actively involved with many Missoula non-profits including the International Choral Festival and Five Valleys Land Trust. She served two terms as a trustee of School District 1 in Missoula. Her love of the University of Montana led her to work at the University of Montana Foundation and serve on many boards at the University including the Foundation Board of Trustees. She also helped create the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (MOLLI) program at the University.

Ann was a beautiful, strong woman who loved her friendships and meeting people. She had a way of connecting with people with her curiosity, understanding and engaging personality. She made the world a better place.

A memorial service will be held on January 21, 2024 at the University UC Ballroom at 3:00 PM. Donations in Ann's honor can be made to the University of Montana Foundation for the funding of the History Department, UM Women's Soccer or Davidson Honors College, Garden City Harvest, or to the Missoula YWCA.

Published by Missoulian on Dec. 23, 2023.