Sydnie Ann Hale Watson, 77

Sydnie Ann Hale Watson was born in Whitefish on March 1, 1939, to Arnold and Ann Hale. She graduated from Whitefish High School and was a graduate of Montana State University. Sydnie held a Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology as well as a Master of Science degree in immunology that she earned from California State University.

Sydnie met Paul in 1964 in Southern California when he was in his pathology training. Along with being a wife and mother, she worked closely with Paul in his pathology practice.

She leaves behind her husband Paul; four children, Brett, Michelle, Brian and Julie; 12 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; a brother, Martin Hale, of Whitefish; her loving nephew, Alrick Hale, and his family of Whitefish; and her aunt, Electra Lockridge, of Missoula; as well as many other nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Sandy Unger.

Sydnie and Paul enjoyed travel, fishing, hunting, and their home overlooking the Pacific in Baja, Mexico.

Sydnie was an accomplished pilot, Ham radio operator and fisherman. She loved her golden retrievers; over her lifetime she had eight beloved dogs.

Sydnie passed away Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, after a two-year battle with metastatic melanoma. She died at home peacefully, surrounded by her family.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Dennis Peterson of Kalispell for his compassionate care throughout Sydnie’s illness. Sydnie and Paul also express their gratitude to the professionals at MD Anderson Hospital in Houston, and especially those at the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City where she received such compassionate care for over a year.

The family plans a private memorial at their home in Baja this spring.

Donations may be made in Sydnie’s name to the American Cancer Society/Hope Lodge.