Ruth Grosswiler McKay, 69
Ruth Grosswiler McKay, 69 , beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, sister and friend, passed away Nov. 28, 2005, at Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.
She was born Feb. 23, 1936, in Kalispell, the second of four children to Carl F. and Mabel (Johnson) Grosswiler. Ruth was raised on the Carl Grosswiler family farm, northwest of Kalispell. Ruth attended Spring Creek School and was an excellent student. As a youth, Ruth learned to play the piano and participated in numerous activities in the Presbyterian Church. Ruth attended Flathead County High School and graduated near the top of her class.
Ruth enjoyed learning and sought the chance to get an extended education at Montana State University in Bozeman. Ruth excelled in college, too, receiving a bachelor's degree in less than four years, and graduating in science and home economics.
Ruth received her first post-graduate employment with the school district in Bayard, Neb. She taught home economics and physical education subjects at Bayard and later at Rushville, Neb.
In 1960, she met a Chadron State college student named Joe D. McKay, and they married in 1961. Sons Kent and Michael were born in Nebraska. Ruth and Joe taught school in Rushville for several years, before moving to Kalispell in 1966.
Ruth taught at West Valley School for one year and in the Kalispell School District for 28 years, and was respected by peer educators, students and parents. Ruth taught numerous subjects, but predominantly science, health and physical education. Ruth also served as an assistant athletic director for the junior high school for several years. Ruth and Joe retired from teaching in 1995.
Ruth was a member and elder of the Presbyterian Church, the Montana Educator's Association and the American Association of University Women. Ruth also volunteered time to numerous organizations throughout the years, including Babe Ruth Baseball, the First Presbyterian Church and Flathead High School athletics.
Ruth will be remembered for her kind heart, tearful laughter, friendly smile, and her commitment to her family and friends. Ruth's baked caramel rolls and German chocolate cakes were treasured at holiday family gatherings and birthday celebrations. As an educator, Ruth's contribution to Flathead Valley citizens is immeasurable. Having grown up in Kalispell and lived here 50 plus years, Ruth has hundreds of beloved friends and relatives in the Flathead Valley.
Ruth enjoyed music, movies, fictional novels, and Kalispell youth activities. Ruth treasured her family, and loved extended family gatherings. Ruth enjoyed traveling and history, and visited several American states and Canadian provinces. Above all, Ruth loved Flathead Valley summers, trips to Glacier Park and Sunday drives.
Ruth passed away after battling a rare neurological disease. The disease affected her balance, dexterity and muscle strength. The disease also robbed her of the ability to speak the words she was thinking, prohibiting her from saying goodbye to each of you. The past few years were trying, but Joe faithfully cared for her needs. The Immanuel Lutheran Home staff was especially helpful in caring for Ruth in her last months.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband, Joe, of Kalispell; two sons, Kent McKay and wife, Nita, of Lake Forest, Calif., and Mike McKay and wife, Joy, and their children, Katie and Samuel, of Missoula; and three brothers, Richard Grosswiler and wife, Loretta, and David Grosswiler, all of Kalispell, and James and wife, Karen, of Mission Viejo, Calif.
Memorial service for Ruth Grosswiler McKay will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Presbyterian Church, with Pastor Glenn Burfeind officiating.
The family suggests memorial gifts be given to the First Presbyterian Church, 540 S. Main St., Kalispell, MT 59901; the Immanuel Lutheran Home, 185 Crestline Ave., Kalispell, MT 59901; or the Hospice/Home Options, 175 Commons Loop, Ste. No. 100, Kalispell, MT 59901.
Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Ruth's family.