Ruth A (Kimball) Watson, 98 ½, was born December 31, 1917 in Colstrip, Montana to Lee Standish Kimball and Katherine Adelia (Cameron) Kimball. Ruth joined two brothers Don & Dick on a homestead south of Colstrip that the family had settled on in 1909. She attended school in Colstrip and later, for a year, attended business school in Spokane, WA.
Ruth Met Linden Dale “Bud” Watson in Colstrip. They were married May 1938. To this union was born Dale, Lavina, Lee, and Della Beth. Bud and Ruth lived in Colstrip until 1949 when they moved to a place in the Hammond Valley, west of Forsyth. Mom always had a big garden. She loved to grow things, especially flowers, roses being her favorite. All her life she had a horse for a pet, and loved to ride. She even learned to ride side saddle in her 60’s, joining the Rosebud Side Saddle Group.
Mom was very busy with “WIFE” and WFC – The Federated Church. She loved to play cards and dance. In the early years, it was square dancing. After that, any dance she could get to. Mom worked for the Forsyth School as Elementary School Secretary for 23 years, retiring in 1986.
Mom loved to travel. She often said that as a young girl, whenever a car left the place, she wanted to be in it. She has traveled to Hawaii, Scotland, Ireland, Europe, Alaska, Australia, and South to Arizona for a few years. She traveled to the East Coast to meet her relatives and the West Coast to visit some more there.
When Ruth and her daughter Lavina traveled or got together they had Tri-ominos tournaments. Last count Ruth was ahead!
Ruth is survived by her 4 children: Dale (Rita) Watson of Belt, MT, Lavina (John) Lubinus of Lewistown, MT, Lee (Carole) Watson of Helena, MT, and Della Beth Rossman of Kansas; 8 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Those who have gone before are her parents, brothers, husband, and one grandchild.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, July 1, 2016 at the Federated Church in Forsyth. A Graveside Service will follow in the Forsyth Cemetery. Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth is assisting the family with arrangements and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com
Memorial donations may be made to the Federated Church or the Diabetes Foundation.
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
Friday July 1, 2016
Forsyth Cemetery
2804 Old Highway 10
Forsyth, Montana 59327
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Cathy Byron says
Dale, Rita and all of Ruth’s Family –
The world lost a special lady today. It was a shock to see this tonight, though I know she has been fragile for some time. I’ll always remember her laughter when she worked for the school. And how regal she was when riding side saddle in that wonderful costume. She’s written quite a legacy here on this earth, and goes to a great reward, I’m certain. My heart and prayers are with you. Treasure the memories.
Marlene Newman Rule says
My thoughts and prayers to the family. I also remember her riding side saddle and how impressed I was of the costumes. Remember living at Hammon Valley and the good times!!
Connie Brown says
Dale, Rita, and the rest of Ruth’s family,
Gone, but certainly not forgotten! We all knew this day would someday come, but still surprised to see her name listed. I always think of Ruth and the many years she sat in front of me at church and whenever I see a side-saddler I see Ruth. She was in the top of the class for many things, and yet she never expected anyone to think of her that way. She was a gem! My prayers go out to you and may you keep her love and memories alive through your lives.
Randy & Janet Stanhope says
Dan, Rita and family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Our prayers are sent your way through this very difficult time.
Sonja Crocker says
So many fond memories of Ruth. A Christian Lady who could do so many things.
A Life to celebrate!
Carroll and Lanell Kaup says
Our sincere sympathy and prayers to all the Watson family. Ruth was an inspirational person. I will always remember the loving care she extended to everyone while she worked at the elementary school in Forsyth. Her smiling face will be missed.
The Simmons Family says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all. Think about and share the memories with one another, they will bring smiles to all.
Sharon Wetsch says
Dale- Rita and Families
I was so sorry to hear of Ruth’s passing. She was such a neat lady. We spent many days
traveling to parades to sidesaddle. She’d call me up and say “Well are we going?” and we would. She was such a horsewoman..! Nothing ever bothered her. She always told me she loved traveling and kept her children connected because they had to call each other to find out where she went– this time.. So independent and confident and loved life.. She will be missed.. Hugs and prayers to you all..!
Jo Ryan says
I met Ruth on the trip to Alaska. What a neat person. We have met several times since. It was a treat to watch her ride sidesaddle in Forsyth. My condolences to the family.
Donna and Ralph Mitchell says
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. I remember your mom always upbeat and smiling. We can’t make it to the service as much as I would like to so will send my prayers there instead.
Karie Weamer says
I am so sorry for your loss. What a wonderful long life. She was so sweet and always had a smile. I have many wonderful childhood memories of her from elementary school and church. RIP Mrs. Watson
Joan Leinwand says
Sending my condolences.
Diana Mickell Hale says
Ruth Watson family. Your Mom was a jewel. She was always friendly and had a smile for everyone. My prayers and thoughts are with you all. Have not seen you all for years, but still have fond memories.
Diana Mickell Hale says
Ruth Watson family. My prayers and thoughts to your family. Have not seen you all for a long time, but still have fond memories.
Pat and Bob Corbin says
What a grand lady. She lived a long and rewarding life. All the memories she has giving you, the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Peggy Redman and Earl Mortensen says
To Ruth’s family,
Earl and I are extending heartfelt sympathy to you in the loss of your beloved Mother and Grandmother. I arrived in Forsyth 46 years ago to begin teaching in the Elementary School. Ruth was school secretary at that time. I always liked to refer to her as “the queen of multi-tasking.” She could accomplish more in less time than 5 women, and do a great job with every task at hand. She was one of a kind. The world has lost a wonderful person and a caring heart. Today we all share in your sorrow.