Ruby Larson Clark, 89

May 21, 2010, Ruby Larson Clark, 89, of Priest River, died as she lived, HER WAY!!!! Ruby was born in Big Fork, Minn., on Nov. 14, 1920. She joined Reuben and Hilda (Turnquist) Larson’s big and growing family.

The Great Depression brought the Larsons to Priest River when she was 5 years of age. Ruby attended grade school in Nordman; and yes she walked miles in knee-deep snow, wearing her brother’s shoes to get to school.

She graduated from Priest River High School, where she played basketball and was a cheerleader. Ruby married the love of her life, Wilbur H. Clark, in July 1938. They had five children.

The stories of Ruby’s life could fill pages of several books. She was a loving wife, awesome mother, the best grandmother, Hot Grams, Gee Gee and sister. She took in any and all people who needed a place to live, from family members to strangers; her dinner table was always crowded. She was a hard working, hard playing, wonderful lady. From grocery clerk to logging camp cook, she rose to meet each day with a zest to live life to the fullest.

Ruby is survived by her sons, Phil (Diane) of Enumclaw, Wash., John (Sharon) of Priest River, Jim’s wife Chrystal Bittner of Post Falls, Butch (Sharon) of Priest River and daughter Lynnette (Jim) Hall of Post Falls. Survivors also include 15 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren and her namesake is on her way. Three sets of twin great-grandsons were a special gift in her life.

Those that preceded her in death were her husband, Wilbur in 1984; son Jim; parents Hilda and Reuben Larson; brothers Art, Barney, Loy, Quinton, Rodney and Elton; and sisters Edna, Nita and Bernice.

The family would like to thank Beth Booth Berger for all the love and care she gave Ruby this last year; Life Care Center in Post Falls, they listened to each of her wishes and let Ruby go with dignity and respect. When you think of mom, hopefully you will laugh out loud with joy as she did.

Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 29, 2010, at the Evergreen Cemetery in Priest River. Sherman-Knapp Funeral Home in Priest River, is in charge of arrangements.

Family and friends are welcome to sign the online guest book at www.sherman-knapp.com.