Tami Ursich, the Missoula woman who founded the Iron Horse Bar and Grill 35 years ago, passed away recently.
"It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Tami," the Ursich family posted on social media on Wednesday. "Tami was truly one of a kind, a bright light in our community whose warmth, laughter, and generous spirit made everyone feel like family. Whether you knew her for years or just met her once, she had a way of making you feel welcome, heard, and at home. The Iron Horse wasn’t just a bar to her — it was a gathering place filled with stories, friendships, and unforgettable moments, all shaped by her heart and her love for people."
A celebration of life at the downtown establishment is planned for 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8 that will be open to the public. Then, after 5 p.m., the place will be reserved and closed for family and close friends.
"She touched so many lives through her kindness, her strength, and the countless memories made within those walls," the family's statement continued. "Tami loved this community deeply, and we know many of you will want the opportunity to come together and celebrate Tami’s life."
The Iron Horse will remain open for business.
"Tami would have wanted the show to go on. Please come in, enjoy some great food and drinks, support the Iron Horse, and celebrate Tami the way she would have wanted — with laughter, good company, and a full house. Thank you for the love, prayers, and support you’ve shown our family during this difficult time," the statement concluded.
Kyle Riggs, a Missoula sommelier, bartender and entrepreneur, said he worked for Ursich for many years.
"I spent 18 years at the Iron Horse," he said. "I always respected her as a businessperson. It's a hard business and she was always there and doing it and was rock solid and took pretty darn good care of her people."
He noted that Ursich, along with Tim France at Worden's Market, Jurgen Knoller at Bayern Brewery, and Kevin Head at the Rhino, started Montana's first brewfest, called BRIW Fest, in Missoula in 1992.
Ursich started the business at the north end of Higgins in 1991 and moved it to the current location in 1997.
Riggs said the Ursich family, from Helena, was very well-known across Montana. Her full obituary will be published in the Missoulian and the Helena Independent Record soon, the family said.
David Erickson is the business reporter for the Missoulian.Â
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