Karrie began resting peacefully the morning of November 16th with both of her children at her side, singing along to some her favorite old country tunes. We are so glad mom is no longer unable to do the things she enjoyed. Some of the things we remember her loving the most; her early years on her family farm with her father Richard Kelly & Karen Crawford who taught her a love for animals and hard work. She loved 4-H and her community. As she grew older she enjoyed skiing, horseback riding and spending time with family and friends above all else. She had a smile that lasted for days and the ability to forgive and be understanding with an optimistic attitude that gives us all something to aspire to. She graduated high school from Capital High in 1977. Karrie loved school and the activities involved; including cheerleading, high school dances and building floats with friends for The Vigilante Parade. One of her favorite memories was being part of the high school Rodeo Team. Where she had many achievements and found great fulfillment in those accomplishments. After high school her love for riding and competing took her on many adventures with friends and in love. Some of favorite memories were summers spent in Wolf Creek riding, playing softball and enjoying the outdoors. During this time she had various jobs in Bozeman and in Helena until she found a home at the Montana Power Company in the early 1980’s. Her time there was full of good memories, company picnics, bowling league and get-togethers just to name a few. Her coworkers at the MPC were incredibly supportive through her surgery in 1991, her recovery, and throughout the rest of her life.
She went on to marry Russ Wattnem in 1985. They have two children Jamie and Sam. We enjoyed many family vacations, in particular the time spent with her two sisters and their children. One of our fondest memories as a family is our time spent with our grandparents. Playing in the snow at grandma and grandpa Harry’s house in Big Sky and jumping in leaves at Grandma and Grandpa Wattnem’s in Helena, where much of our childhood was spent.
Mom found faith in Jehovah in 1989, and not long after was baptized, from there on her faith grew and accompanied her in death.
In her faith, she believed, she would be resurrected to a paradise on earth. We rest easier knowing that she held hope someday she would laugh, love and ride again.
We love and miss you and are proud to say you are in the saddle once more.
Enoy the ride.
A Memorial Service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 22, 2014 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A reception will follow the service in the Banquet Hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday November 22, 2014
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
After the service
Saturday November 22, 2014
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Banquet Hall
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday November 22, 2014
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
After the service
Saturday November 22, 2014
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Banquet Hall
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
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Kelly, Dulcy & DJ says
Russ, Jamie and Sam –
We are very sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that will are thinking of you all during this difficult time.
Rhonda Strainer Robertson says
To Karrie’s Family,
I am saddened to hear of Karrie’s passing. I just saw her Mom, Karen a couple of weeks ago and also Jamie and her fiancé. I can still hear Karrie’s laugh and great smile. These are the two things I will fondly remember of her. I hope all the wonderful memories you hold close to your hearts will sustain you in the days ahead. I’m certain she is at peace, laughing, smiling and doing all the things she has not been able to do for so many years.
Rhonda Strainer Robertson
Denise & Bill says
Karen, Kimmy ,Kris, love you all! I’m so sorry to hear about Karrie. I remember the old day’s way back when. Luv you ALL!!!!!
Shelley(Novak)parmer says
Dick,Karen ,Kim, and Kris
Sorry to hear about Karrie my thoughts,prayers and hugs are with you and your family.
Shelley
Jody Sandru says
To all of Karrie’s family,
I will never forget the twinkle in her eye and her contagious laugh. I cherish the memories of the great times we shared throughout high school and beyond. A beautiful soul is never forgotten, and I pray she is in the perfect place. Hugs and prayers to all of you during this fragile time. Jody
Terry Harris says
Dick and Karen I am so sorry for your loss may she rst in peace. My pryers and thoughts are with you and her family.
Elmer and Barb Cole says
Karrie was such a beautiful, loving person. I knew Karrie from MT power and Elmer has known Dick about forever. We send our thoughts and prayers to the family.
Pam Arroues says
Sam- I am so sorry for your loss! As one of my extra kids, if you need ANYTHING, let me know. God bless
Leon and Marsha Belville says
Dick, Karen, Kim & Kris-
Our thoughts are with you and family. We’re very sorry to learn of Karrie’s passing.
Marion Schmidt Alberts says
Karen and Harry, and Dick: My condolences. I was saddened to read of your daughter’s passing. She was certainly beautiful.
Priss Leslie says
All of Karrie’s family, Karrie was such a beautiful, loving person I was sadden to hear of her passing. Prays and thoughts sent your way.
Vanessa & Chuck Tolson says
Karen & family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Verna Norling Macpherson says
Dear Karen, Harry and Dick,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Please accept my heart-felt sympathy.
Sincerely,
Verna Macpherson
Carrie Hahn says
To all of Karrie’s family-My deepest sympathy to you for your loss. Karrie was a beautiful lady with the greatest smile! I pray that your memories will help comfort you during this difficult time.
Bob Biskupiak says
My thoughts and prayers go out to Karrie’s family. Karrie and I were friends in high school, but did not stay in touch after that. I ran into Karrie one time about 10 years ago. In spite of her medical challenges she still had a beautiful smile and took great pride in introducing me to her children. Remember the good times.
Carol Hollow says
To all of Karrie’s loved ones: when thinking of Karrie she’s always wearing a smile. She was just a beautiful person. Peace to all of you.
Lori Young says
How I loved Karrie! It was fun having a relative that was so close to my age. My favorite memory was when she and my friend Rhonda drove to Missoula to spend the day with me. Together we talked, laughed, prayed, and went on walks. My last time with Karrie was when she was living in Whitehall. Once again, we got to have some “girl” time, even though she was struggling to get around. Russ, Sam and Jamie, I sure wish I could be there for the celebration of her life. Much love to you!!
Cathy Kaiser says
Virgil and I have Karrie’s family in our thoughts and prayers. Our memories of the Kelly sister cheerleaders are good times!
Evy Burris Sass says
Dear Loved Ones of Karrie, You have my sincere condolences on the loss of your precious Karrie. My son Kirk Burris also sends his sympathy. Peace, prayers and Blessings to you.
Denise & Jim Backstrom says
Karen, Dick & family, We are so sorry to hear about Karrie. She always had a smile for everyone & was a wonderful person. Always remember the happy times. I;m sorry we can’t make the service. I recently had surgery & I’m still mending. Hugs to all of you.