Erma Pauline (Pearson) Slater, 86

Erma Pauline (Pearson) Slater was born April 14, 1924, and passed away Aug. 6, 2010, at Lake View Care Center, at the age of 86. She was the ninth of 14 children born to Art and Leona Pearson of Ronan. She is survived by her son, Michael Slater, of Spokane; grandchildren, Clifford Slater of Gig Harbor, Wash., and Stephany Slater of Los Angeles; two brothers, Burton Pearson and wife, Betty, of Moses Lake, Wash., and Clair Pearson and wife, Betty, of Spokane; sisters, Bernice Slater of Bigfork, and Vida Janke and husband, Mart, of La Mirada, Calif.; sisters-in-law, Ivy Pearson of Moiese, Sharon Pearson of Mount Vernon, Wash., and Margaret Pearson of Deer Lodge; and many, many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Clifford Daniel Slater; siblings, Wayne and wife, Alice Pearson, Blanch Bullman, Marie Bullman, Clem Pearson, Grant Pearson, Max Pearson, Vance Pearson, Keith and wife, Lee Pearson, and Stuart and wife, Ruby Pearson. Erma spent 33 years in Haines, Alaska. Erma and Cliff enjoyed many years in Alaska, first in Petersburg, then in Juneau, and finally at 33 Mile in Haines, where she and her husband owned and ran a restaurant and gift store. She enjoyed ptarmigan hunting, fishing, and many hobbies. After her husband died she moved to Haines, where she did alterations for the town of Haines, repairing flags, sewing robes for the Catholic priests and wedding dresses, painting and making dolls, oil painting, etc. She could do it all and do it well. Erma moved to Kalispeil to be near family in 2006. She made many friends during her time in Kalispell. Her family is grateful for the special time with her. She will be missed by her many family and friends. The family wishes to recognize and thank the staffs of Home Options, Lake View Care Center, and Hospice of Kalispell for their exceptional care and compassion. Erma requested donations be made to the Kalispell Fire Department or Hospice of Kalispell for those who wish to honor her. To respect Erma s wishes, a memorial service will not be held. Her ashes will be spread on the mountain behind their former property at 33 Mile to be near her sweet husband.