Russell Lee Williamson, 66, of Havre died May 24, 2008, after many years of failing health.
He died at home, being cared for by his wife, the Bear Paw Hospice nurses, and his family and friends. His memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 28, 2008, at the Messiah Lutheran Church with Pastor Michael Dahle officiating. A fellowship luncheon will be held at the church immediately after the service. Russell’s cremated remains will be buried in the family plot at the Highland Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Russell’s honor may be made to the Havre-Hill County Library Or to Bear Paw Hospice. Services and arrangements have been entrusted to Holland & Bonine Funeral Home. Russell was born Nov. 8, 1941, in Havre to Marion (Lund) and William Edward (Ed) Williamson. He grew up on the family ranch south of Chinook and he graduated from Chinook High School in 1959. He enlisted in the Montana Air National Guard and served as a firefighter for eight years and was honorably discharged. Russell married Bonnie Olson Nov. 27, 1965, in Havre. Russell and Bonnie had two children. While working on the family ranch he became a very skilled truck driver after leaving the ranch driving and repairing trucks was his life. Russell was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Edrea and Marilyn and a niece, Valerie Knudsvig. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; his children Holly Sue of Great Falls and Raymond of Fairfield, grandson Ryan Shaneybrook of Great Falls and his brother Allen (Phyllis) Williamson of Missoula, special in-laws Elaine Williamson of Missoula and LeRoy Knudsvig of Whitefish, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and two aunts: Sevrie Green of Big Sandy, and Betty Williamson of St. Louis, Mo.
