Obituary of Ruth Allen

Ruth passed away at the Beverly Centre Midnapore on New Year’s Day 2006. Ruthie was born on December 29, 1926 in Lougheed, AB, however, the Norwegian Community of Ryley became her home town. She was extremely proud of her Viking heritage. As a young woman, Ruth supported the war effort by leaving her small Alberta town to work in a munitions factory in Ajax, ON. She also was a member of the CWAC and wore her uniform with pride. After WWII, Ruth returned to Alberta establishing a career as a stenographer. It was in Edmonton that she caught the eye of Bill. Family life really began on good ‘ol Stanley Drive in 1956 where she lovingly raised her four children. An avid bridge player, she was one of the “Happy Hearts” gang. Self-taught, Ruthie loved to tickle the ivories and heartily encouraged the sing-alongs at the neighbourhood shin-digs. A dog walker extraordinaire and squirrel freedom fighter, she always had an open heart and door for all creatures in need. Ruth’s later years were often spent co-piloting one of their three restored antique MGs. Many lasting friendships were formed through the MG Club of Calgary, Imperial Oil and the International Oil Scouts. She loved attending the fabulous conventions held all over the continent. Ruth will be lovingly remembered by her children, Kim Allen of Vancouver, Lindsay McKenzie, Nancy and Les Myers, and William P. Allen, all of Calgary; five grandchildren, Kris and Phil Laudien, and Mary Lou, Courtney and Sydney McKenzie; sisters and brothers, Myrna and Bill Ewaskow, Arvid and Marion Alseth, Ralph and Helen Alseth, and Clare and Lee Lowry; as well as the extended family who have been highlights in her life. Ruth was predeceased by her husband of fifty-three years William Preston (Bill) Allen. Ruthie was a devoted mom, gramma, wife and friend. Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W.) on Friday, January 6, 2006 at 2:30 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alzheimer Society of Calgary, #201, 222 – 58 Avenue S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 2S3 Telephone: (403) 290-0110. Our warmest thanks to the caring nurses and staff at the Beverly Centre, Midnapore. Thank you for being there for our family. In living memory of Ruth Allen, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.