(nee Wollenberg)
Ruth passed away peacefully October 20, 2011 in the Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster at the age of 85. Born November 7, 1925 in Kostopol, Poland to Julius and Helena Wollenberg, she immigrated to Canada at the age of three.
She was raised in Alberta with her four siblings (August, Tobae, John and Rueben). The family endured through tough times which instilled in Ruth the value of hard work and compassion. Ruth lived most of her life in Chilliwack where she made many dear friends. She overcame many challenges in life including raising four children on her own.
Determined to make a better life for her family, at the age of 40, with only a grade nine education, she returned to school to get her grade 12 diploma.
Even when she had very little, she always found a way to help those who had even less. Her quick smile and ability to kibitz with the best of them will be missed and, even in her final days, she produced a mischievous grin when told to “stay out of trouble.”
Ruth’s strength, fierce independence, sense of pride and selflessness has been an inspiration to those around her, particularly her children.
Ruth will be missed by her three children: Eileen (Art), Dennis (Julianne) and Cheryl (Richard); two grandsons: Steven and Derrick (Kari); and two great-grandchildren: Vanessa and Mason; and many other relatives and friends. She is predeceased by her son, Harvey; and brother, August.
A service will be held at Henderson’s Funeral Home, 45901 Victoria Avenue, Chilliwack on Wednesday, October 26, 2011 at 1:00 pm, preceded by an opportunity for viewing from 12 noon - 1:00 pm. An informal reception following the service is being held at the Coast Hotel, 45920 First Avenue, Chilliwack.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Online condolences can be left at www.hendersonsfunerals.com