Alzada Aldine "Zada" Emerson

Zada Emerson 88, of Missoula passed away on Saturday, August 27, 2016 in Hilda’s Room at Community Hospital, holding her youngest daughter Michelle’s hand.

She was born May 28, 1928 in Garrison North Dakota to William and Lottie (Moxness) Hill. She was an extremely intelligent, spunky woman. All who knew her respected her hour with Alex Trebek, and never phoned during Jeopardy. She began every morning doing the crossword puzzle and the crytoquote, her day couldn’t begin until she finished both! She was a member of Garden City Duplicate Bridge Club and had obtained Life Master Status. She also played bridge at the Missoula Senior Center. Other hobbies included painting, tutored by a reknowned Bangkok painter and was an amazing artist in her own right. A world traveler spending time in Spain, Thailand, Hong Kong, Japan and the Philippines. An avid quilter, always hand stitched. She loved gardening and had a beautiful green thumb. She had a tremendous love of music and spent many hours playing the piano.

Zada’s life was plagued with many health problems. She had tuberculosis, which went undetected for 12 years. She also dealt with celiac disease and was in the late stages of COPD and emphysema. Regardless, she remained a determined fighter.

Survivors include her daughters Michelle Kohler (Bill) Spokane WA, Colleen Green (Paul) Palmer AK, Karetta Barrett (Frank) Clackamas OR, Linda Kuhar, Billings MT, Cheryl Shaffer, Cody WY. Brother Donnell Hill, Minot ND/Sun City AZ. Along with 6 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Preceded in death by her parents, William and Lottie, Velva ND and two brothers, Warren A Hill, Nooksack WA and Vance Hill, Peoria AZ.

A private memorial will be scheduled at a later date. Sunset Memorial Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Condolences for Zada’s family may be left at www.sunsetfuneralhomecemetery.com