October 4, 2019
Passed away on October 4, 2019 at the age of 102. Everyone had their own term of endearment for a woman so loved and admired. Ruth was called Mum, Nan, Nana, Nana Ruthie, Ruth, Auntie Ruth, Nanny Ruth and Mrs. Mac. Ruth never grew old and never had an old thought, as she continued to be in perfect health until recently. Ruth was a great example of living life to the fullest and an inspiration and positive role model and mentor to all.
Ruth was predeceased by her husband Walter and dearly loved partner Bert Downey. She is survived by her daughters Lynne (Nick), Samantha (Jay); grandchildren Gavin (Jennifer), Fiona (Elias), Jonathan, Matthew (Jessica), Kelly (Jerome); great-grandchildren Alyssa, Ryan, Sofia, Maria, Brendon, Sarah, Brilliant and Maverick; nieces Patti (Roger), Shirley, Marjorie; nephew Ron (Rhonda); and cousin's daughter Barb (Chris). Also dear to Ruth's heart was Bert's family: children Ross (Vicki), Claire (Bob); grandchildren Ryan (Ginette), Sheryl (Brett), Craig (Dorthe), Geoffrey (Jessie); great-grandchildren Lexie, Katie, Maddie, Kayla, Aleisha, Albert and Ella.
Ruth laughed, travelled, golfed, gardened, loved a glass of wine, sang, fished, painted, made awesome marmalade and shortbread, trained as a hairdresser, ran a marina and during WWII was even fired from her volunteer job in Ucluelet for giving the servicemen too many scoops of ice cream! After Ucluelet, Ruth settled in Copper Cove where she enjoyed years of great neighbourhood camaraderie and lasting friendships, especially with the Pritties and the Cotters. Ruth spent her retirement in White Rock golfing, fishing and playing tennis with the "Love of her Life" Bert. She will be sorely missed by all her family, many, many dear friends and her "one and only" Kip! No service by request. Memorial donations may be made to the Salvation Army or B.C. Children's Hospital Foundation.