Emma L. Wales, 96, died Saturday, June 7, 2014 in Durango. Services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, June 21, 2014, at Ignacio Community Church with interment immediately following at Pine River Cemetery in Bayfield. Lunch will be served at the Los Pinos Fire Station in Ignacio following interment.
Mrs. Wales was born Sept. 6, 1917 in Liberal, Kan.,, the daughter of H.C. and Kate Brisendine. She grew up in Liberal, graduating from Liberal High School in 1935. She was married to John A. Russell on September of that same year. Four children were born to this couple: Marilyn, Bud, Jerry and Jeannie. John died in August of 1959 and Emma was a widow until she married Harold Wales on March 10, 1977. They had a wonderful marriage, traveling and experiencing adventures together. They built a home in Forest Lakes in Bayfield and lived there until Harold's death in 1980. She lived in several communities, working mostly in service and caretaking positions. The last two years of her life she lived at Four Corners Health Care Center in Durango where she interacted with staff and residents, enjoying their programs, activities and excellent care.
Emma was an accomplished seamstress. She was also an artist in textile printing, copper jewelry making, ceramics, and other mixed media. She was active in her church and mission work, making 11 annual mission trips to Mexico with friends.
She is survived by the Wales children and families; daughters Marilyn J. Hollenbeck of Buena Vista and Jeannie Stewart of Bayfield; daughter-in-law Michelle Russell of Gillette, Wyo. and a son, Bud Russell of Roy, Wash. She also is survived by many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and many friends.
She was preceded in death by two siblings, her son Jerry, two grandsons and one great-grandson.
Donations may be sent to Heart Ministries, P.O. Box 2068, Hutchinson, Kansas 67504.
