Ruth K. “Ruthie” Kelley
d. January 21, 2019
Ruth K. "Ruthie" Kelley, 84, died January 7, 2019 in Billings, Montana.
Ruthie was born April 21, 1934, in Great Falls, Montana. She was the second child of Emil Krause from Antas, North Dakota, and Magdalene (Lina) Krause from Strasburg, Russia.
She married her loving husband of 62 years, Francis J. "Frank" Kelley, on November 8, 1956. Ruthie was the mother of three children, Kathy, Mark, and Mike. She had great pride in each of children frequently telling stories and sharing insight into each of their lives for the things that mattered most to her.
After raising their children, Ruthie and Frank became empty-nesters and began the next chapter in their lives. For both, this time together was like a 30-year first date. They cherished an inseparable lifestyle and a loving commitment to each other, living, laughing, traveling, and constantly caring for one and other. They were best friends.
Ruthie had a zest for life with the simplest of things making her most happy. She loved animals, especially dogs. She enjoyed flowers with a garden of roses near their porch welcoming everyone with warmth and beauty. Ruthie never met a stranger; everyone she met was a friend. She always had a story to tell, sometimes the same story with a twist, and always the kind that made others feel good.
She enjoyed a successful career in Real Estate as an Agent and Broker for more than 30 years, receiving multiple awards as a top producer in the market and for her commitment to clients, those she served. She was candid and kind; however, when needed, had fiery side that was always sure to capture one's attention.
Ruthie is survived her husband, Frank Kelley; three children, Kathy (Kelley) Munden and husband Kevin, Mark Kelley and wife Kelly, Michael Kelley and partner Lisa; brothers Richard Krause and his children, Virginia "Ginny" Potter and husband David, and their daughter Emily, Paul Krause and partner Nicola.
She was preceded in death by her parents Emil and Lina Krause and sister-in-law Carol Krause.
Her resting place will be Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park in Billings. Services will be held at a later date.
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