Claire Frances Ralph

Claire Frances Pond Ralph passed away peacefully on July 1, 2015 at home surrounded by her family. Claire was born in Butte, MT on December 12, 1942, the oldest child of William Pond and Margaret Murray. Claire attended McKinley grade school and graduated from Butte High in 1961. Claire married the love of her life, James D. Ralph Jr. on November 3, 1962 at the Immaculate Conception Church in Butte, MT. Together they had three children: Lisa, Jimmy, and Jamie. Claire and Jim's lives revolved around their three children and later their grandchildren. Claire met many wonderful people while working for Butte Radiology and Dr. Dan Harrington. Throughout Claire's life she enjoyed many activities, hobbies and was always busy. She could often be found doing laundry (her favorite activity), working in her garden, or cooking. "Sunday Dinners" were a special time when she looked forward to cooking for her family and catching up on everyone's week. Claire enjoyed spending time with her many friends going to movies, lunches, and concerts. She was a Red Hat member for several years and cherished the friendships that were formed. Most of all Claire loved spending time with her grandchildren. Claire was preceded in death by her parents; husband James, brother, Bill Pond, and special cousin Jean Manley. Claire is survived by her children Lisa (Ken) Foreman, James Ralph, and Jamie (Don) Templin, her grandchildren Courtney and Jacob Foreman, Cassandra and Jacklyn Ralph, Zachary, Tayler, and Victoria Templin, and great-grandson Lane Foreman. Claire is also survived by her sisters Margie (Carl) Owen, Barbara Schelin and Denny Dehael, sister-in-law Peggy Pond, brother-in-law Aaron (June) Ralph and numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by special friends June Bertrand and Frank and Charlotte Richards. A special thanks to Dr. James Hueftle, his caring nurse and office staff at St. James. Chris, Ramona, Patti and the wonderful staff at Highlands Hospice. Memorials in Claire's name are suggested to Easter Seals/Highlands Hospice. "Thank you for the happiness and love you brought to our lives. We love you and will miss you deeply."

Tributes

Claire Frances Ralph

December 12, 1942 - July 1, 2015