Ruth (Snow) McCollum

Ruth (Snow) McCollum passed away peacefully of natural causes on March 4, 2014. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Croxfords Funeral Home of Great Falls. Visitation and rosary is Sunday at Croxfords Funeral Home, funeral service is Monday at St. Ann’s, times to be announced.

Ruth was born February 21, 1924, in Coffeyville, Kan. The oldest of four daughters, she was raised on a small farm. With no brothers to assist in chores, Ruth had routine duties to perform, building a strong work ethic she carried with her. During World War II, she met Harold McCollum, “the love of her life”, who was in pilot training. They married on September 5, 1944. At the conclusion of the war, Ruth accompanied Harold to Great Falls, where they raised four children - three girls and one boy.

Ruth was a homemaker who kept a tranquil and loving environment for her family. Ruth had a wonderful disposition, she never had a cross word with Harold. They enjoyed life together.

Ruth traveled extensively with Harold throughout the USA, Canada, South America and Europe. They participated in 20 cruises covering Hawaii, Mexico, Bahamas and the Mediterranean. Ruth and Harold summered in Polson, Mont. on Flathead Lake where family gathered over the years. Camping was a regular family activity, enjoying campsites throughout Montana and vacation travels.

Ruth was a devout Catholic all of her life. She was a parish member at Holy Family Parish and St. Anne’s Cathedral. She was a member of Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), and a registered descendant of the Mayflower. She was in a bridge club for over 50 years, was active in bowling at The Elks and enjoyed golf. Ruth was respected by all she had contact with, including employees of Modern Equipment Co. and McCollum Modern RV’s.

Recently, Ruth celebrated her 90th birthday. On that occasion, feelings were expressed by her daughter: “I’m wishing you a day of beautiful memories. I remember lots of summer-day lunchtime picnics in the backyard...with the blanket spread out on the grass. And, letting us have old sheets and curtains for our tents...on the clothesline in the summer and thumb-tacked to the walls and ceiling of the rec room in winter. You let us be kids, but were always right there when we needed help or guidance. Thank you, my beautiful Mom, for giving me a wonderful childhood. I appreciate that even more as I get older. All my love to you on this very special occasion! Love you so very much, Carole.” Feelings expressed by her sister: “You have so many gifts to share…so many ways to make the world more beautiful. You’re a wonderful person, and I’m proud you’re my sister. I love you very much, Dorothy.”

In addition to her husband, Harold, Ruth is survived by her four children; Carole Carberry (Sumter, S.C.), Donna Newlon (Modesto, Calif.) Rick McCollum (Paradise, Mont.), Rita McCollum (Seattle, Wash.), a sister, Dorothy Sweeney (Williamsburg, Va.), twelve grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She will be missed and always loved.

The family wishes to thank Cambridge Court for their outstanding services over the past year while Ruth was there. Also, to hospice for their services in easing Ruth’s passage.

Harold, Carole, Donna, Rick and Rita