Marilyn Haugen’s Last Stand of Love and Laughter | Spokane News

Spokane News Today | 2 Min | The Daily News Now! · Jul 10, 2026 · 1m

In a heartbreaking twist of fate, eighty-three-year-old Marilyn Haugen chose to stay as the Upriver fire raged, ultimately claiming her life—though she was the only fatality among fourteen homes destroyed. Her son Scott honors her not as a victim, but as a vibrant, adventurous soul who lived boldly: from Alaskan moose hunts to crafting paddleboats with her kids, she turned every moment into joy. Even as flames approached, she clung to faith, believing her soul would be with her savior regardless of the outcome. Scott remembers her laughter, her love, and her knack for making every meal feel…