Ann King Wilson, 84

Ann King Wilson passed away April 7, 2021, in Libby, following an extended period of declining health. She was 84 years old.

Ann was born Feb. 9, 1937, in Adams, Minn., to Alfred and Louise King. As a young child, she moved with her family to Eltopia, Wash., and then to Richland, Wash., where she grew up and graduated high school.

She married her high school sweetheart, Gary Wilson, on Feb. 26, 1956. They lived in California and Washington before moving to Libby with five young children in 1962. Together they raised a family of eight children, who all grew up in Libby. In addition to being a mother to her large family, Ann worked together with Gary at the family grocery and hardware stores until 1984.

Ann was an avid gardener and enjoyed growing a variety of flowers and vegetables in her large, impressive gardens. She also loved children and surrounded herself with them — her own children, grandchildren and the 60 or so children she fostered, both formally and informally.

She also cared for many youngsters in the childcare she operated out of her home until her retirement in 1999. She was a caring, generous person who would literally give you the shirt off her back if you needed it.

Ann was dedicated to her children and grandchildren, and they brought a great deal of joy to her life. She was often seen at sporting events, rooting on her children and grandchildren from the stands, as well as supporting them in their other activities and endeavors. She was extremely proud of her family, was fiercely and vociferously protective of them and happy to brag about their accomplishments.

Ann is dearly missed, leaving behind her devoted husband of 65 years, Gary; sister, Julie Rose of Vancouver, Wash.; brother, Dan King of Richland, Wash.; daughters, Christi Smith (Tracy) of Whitefish, and Cathy Spencer (Kurt), Cindy Cooper (Ron) and Amy Gilden (Jim) all of Libby; sons, Bert Wilson (Margee) of Denver, Jace Wilson of Denver, John Wilson of Libby and Eric Wilson (Debbie) of Thompson Falls; 23 cherished grandchildren and 34 adored great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, John King; and sister, Evelyn King.

Arrangements are by Schnackenberg Funeral Home in Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.