Obituary of Ruth Janet STOREY (nee McKinnon)

March 5, 1930 - Calgary, Alberta

February 22, 2021 - Calgary, Alberta

When Ruth was born to J. Angus and Olive McKinnon on March 5, 1930, the world became a better place. She grew up on the farm in Dalemead, AB, surrounded by cousins and extended family. In this idyllic setting, she learned to live fully, without judgement, where high value was placed on family and hard work. She began school in Dalemead, then attended Mount Royal High School and the Holy Cross Hospital School of Nursing in Calgary. Caring for others was always her passion, and she embraced her calling with humour and skill. It was during this time she met and married her soulmate W. David Storey. They started their adventures in the U.S., before moving back to Alberta to raise their family in Springbank.

Ruth excelled at motherhood, becoming very involved in all the kids’ activities, from scouting to pony club and everything in the middle. Their home became the focal point of the neighbourhood, providing a sanctuary of love and cookies. Upon retirement, David and Ruth explored North America, where Ruth embraced every adventure with enthusiasm and always did her share of driving the motorhome. They also managed to squeeze in intermittent sailing trips and a six month European vacation with beloved friends and family. At the end of each adventure, Ruth was so happy to get home and enjoy the grandchildren, whom she adored.

Through all these years, Ruth hosted every family event, club meeting, church gathering and coffee party seamlessly – often in concert with her best friend, Bobbie Davidson. Ruth forged lifelong relationships with people of all ages every step of the way. She received honours from many of the organizations that were lucky enough to have her in their ranks. Ruth loved her mountain view, the desert in bloom, singing in choirs, reading, puzzling, live music, knitting and games with friends and grandchildren. Gigantic hugs were her signature greeting.

In later years Ruth scouted out her own “retirement” living, choosing to move to Amica Aspen Woods. This community became another family for her, where she loved new friends and maintained her usual caring for all.

Ruth was lucky enough to be in perfect spirits and health before joining David and all her dear ones who have gone before in the presence of her Lord. She will be deeply missed by her children, Linda (Larry), Paul (Kathleen) and Janet (Joe); grandchildren, Loni (Steve), Lorne, Leah (Tom), Haley (Chris), Mark (Jenna), Luke (Amie) and Ellen; and her great-grandson Troy. She was predeceased by her husband David and her parents.

A Celebration of Ruth’s life will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. To obtain a link to this virtual event, please email rememberingruth30@gmail.com. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Ruth’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Inn from the Cold Society, Suite 104, 110 – 11th Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB  T2G 0X5, Telephone: (403) 263-8384, www.innfromthecold.org.

In living memory of Ruth Storey, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.