Dear Karen, Richard and you families. Reading these fond remembrances has given us a glimpse into what was clearly an inspiring, full, and rich life lived. Our sincere condolences to you and to the many people so profoundly touched by your mother over the years.

The Coaldale United Church choir would sometimes finish Thursday evening practice early. When we were in good form, Ruth would call out "Let's have a revival !" and we would get out the little blue "Songs of the Gospel" books and sing and sing !. I enjoyed singing alto with Ruth.

Ruth blessed you all often and I add my blessing to such a caring, fine family.

Auntie Ruth will always hold a special place in my heart. Growing up living just around just around the corner from the Blakies meant we had constant contact between our two families. All the fabulous meals and laughter we shared around the Blakie’s dinner table (Auntie was a marvellous cook), the efforts Mom and Ruth made to drive us to all types of events and activities to enable us to become well rounded individuals, and the genuine welcome Auntie made us feel any time we popped over come to mind instantly. I think of special moments I had one on one with her. Once, Marilyn and I were racing on our bicycles and I skidded on some pea gravel and smashed a knee. Marilyn’s house was closest and if you could still stand on that leg you didn’t go to the doctor so it fell to Auntie to clean all the grit out of my wounds. Poor Ruth! Another time I desperately wanted to do something special for my Mom for Mother’s Day. Auntie dropped everything she was doing to help me make fresh cream puffs for my Mom so I could have a lovely gift to give. How sharp Auntie Ruth was at cribbage whenever we played. She kindly didn’t keep score but I know she was well ahead in the standings.

So many moments. Forever remembered.

I love you Auntie Ruth! Roberta

Ruth was such a lovely lady our family loved her. She will be rejoicing with her husband and daughter again. Our condolence to the family. Another Angel in Heaven❤️

Dear Marilyn, Wes and extended family We were so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. I (Jennifer) first met Mrs Blakie, as she was known to me, through Marilyn, going back to our U of A residence years, when she and I and Wes would travel home together on holidays to Southern Alberta. I remember her as such a warm, classy lady. Please be comforted in the knowledge that your Mom truly led a wonderful rich fulfilling life. We will be attending your loving tribute to her today and will be sending out our love and support to you and the family.

Jennifer Smith and Vaughn Foster

Edmonton

Our deepest condolences to you and your families. We are losing all the matriarchs of our youth. Auntie Ruth will be greatly missed.

Our sincere sympathy on Ruth's passing to Her Dear Family.

She was a remarkable, accomplished, Classy Lady and we were fortunate to have Her Friendship. We cherish the many memories we made over the years in shared laughter and tears. Ruth touched many hearts in Her Journey! A Life well lived.

With hugs and caring.

My deepest sympathy to the family of a dear, wonderful lady, Ruth!

I have been having many thoughts of your mother over the past few weeks, so I knew when another friend told me of her passing, that she had been trying to get in touch with me!! Telepathy!! Ruth was my 'second mother' when I came to Kate Andrews, being my friend, colleague, and mentor. She was so much fun, so encouraging, so loving and caring - to this fledgling teacher, as well as with her students! She has and will always be in my memory, as a very special lady, sharing many laughs, giving encouragement, always being there! I have always had great admiration and love for her, a tremendous human being.

Your family has been given such a beautiful gift through her life shared with you. May the joy and enthusiasm she had for life long live with you all.

Sincerely,

Linda (Rafa) Conway

We are so sorry to learn of Ruth’s death. Ruth and Al were great friends for many years, curling, partying, visiting, etc. together. Ruth was so much fun and so busy! I remember being amazed that she taught full time, raised 3 kids, entertained, managed a big home, AND, for me, the most impressive - made the kids’ clothes, including winter coats! But when she retired she needed a cleaning person because she was so busy. We know Ruth had a wonderful and full life and will be sorely missed. Our sympathies are with you all.

Love,

-Myrna and Clark

Karen, Rich, Andrew and Penelope,

Thinking of you all as you celebrate Ruth's remarkable life.