Shirley Henkel Watters, 84

Shirley Henkel Watters, formerly of Kalispell, passed away July 8, 2021, at Brendan House due to complications of a stroke.

Shirley was born in Wolf Point, Montana, Nov. 28, 1936, the daughter of Louis and Dot (Edeline) Henkel. She had a sister Amber and a brother Donald. Shirley attended the first grade in Libby. The family moved to Kalispell and she attended Elrod Elementary School, Central Junior High, and Flathead County High.

Shirley met Gene Watters in 1949 while throwing snowballs. Shirley married Gene H. Watters, the love of her life and soul mate, in 1953. They had three children Cynthia, Pamela and Gene Jr. Shirley, Gene and the girls moved to California so Gene could start his career as an electrician. This is where J.R. was born. They were there for four years and made lasting friendships. They also spent a summer in Detroit for Gene's work in 1966, which was a very trying time. Shirley was a hard worker, taking care of the ranch while Gene was on the road working. Feeding cows, birthing calves, and everything that goes along with farming and ranching. She was most proud of castrating calves; she never lost one. She planted a huge garden, freezing and canning vegetables for the winter, even making her own bread and butter. She also worked at Flathead Outpatient Surgery Center for 10 years, first in housekeeping, then in setting up surgery trays. Downsizing, they sold the ranch and moved west of Kalispell and became snowbirds in Yuma, Arizona, and then became residents, loving the warm weather. They enjoyed going on cruises to places like Panama, the Caribbean, Hawaii and elsewhere.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, sister Amber Smith, brother Don Henkel and four nieces.

Shirley is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 67 years, Gene, of Yuma, daughter Cindy Buckallew, grandsons Rory, Trey (Brittany) Buckallew, all of Kalispell; daughter Pam (Lauren) Coleman, grandchildren Brandon (Serena), Brooklyn Teeple, all of Alberta; son J.R. (Marissa), grandchildren James, Ashley Watters, all of Kalispell; and 10 great-grandchildren, including two sets of twins.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and CNAs at Logan Health and Brendan House for the care of Shirley.

Shirley has been cremated and, due to family wishes, there will be no service.

Miss Me But Let Me Go — When I come to the end of the road, and the sun has set for me, I want no rites in a gloom filled room. Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little, but not too long. And not with your head bowed low. Remember the love that we once shared. Miss me, and let me go!