Lois Nail Watteyne, 97

“She lived a gracious life and she died a gracious death.” — This was the statement made by her niece Linda, who was with Lois Nail Watteyne as she died peacefully on Jan. 16, 2018, at Prestige Assisted Living.

Lois was born on Dec. 8, 1920, in Mitchell, South Dakota, to Thomas and Panzie Wagner. The family moved to Panzie’s grandmother’s farm in Lower Flathead Valley in 1932.

After graduating from high school, Lois worked for Western Union in Portland where she met her first husband, Gordon Nail. They moved to and lived in San Bernardino, California, for several years, moving back to the Flathead Valley in the 1960s. Gordon died in 1972. Lois married Ike Watteyne in 2001 and they shared life together until he died seven years later.

She was greatly loved by nieces, nephews and numerous friends. Her Christian faith was expressed quietly and daily in the way that she welcomed, listened deeply and provided wise counsel.

Lois was a charter member of Nazarene Church and, there, she was treasurer for many years, faithfully taught the Bible, counseled young married couples, and was in charge of the nursery, nurturing many children and young adults in this community. She created beauty and peace in her home and garden.

Lois’s last full sentence was “I am so blessed to have so many loving friends and family.”

Lois is survived by her sister Bonnie, brother-in law Sam, niece Linda, grandniece Amanda, grandnephew Donnie, and Ike’s son, Jack Watteyne, as well as many loving nieces, nephews and friends.

A memorial gathering will be held in the late spring.