RUTH WERBOWSKI (SHAPKO) (BABA)

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RUTH WERBOWSKI (nee SHAPKO) (BABA) With the heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of our wonderful wife, mother, Baba and friend Ruth Werbowski at Riverview Health Centre on January 23, 2007 at the age of 73. She was the love in our hearts, the perogy on our plate, and the rock of the Werbowski family. She is survived and remembered lovingly by her husband of 49 years, Edward Werbowski; sons, Kim (Kelly) and Jim (Piper); grandchildren, Sam, Lane, Katie, Reid, Quinn and Jake; sisters, Elsie and Donna, and brothers, Harry and Lloyd. She was predeceased by her sisters, Kay, Netty and Lee, and her brothers, George, Mike and Nick. Ruth was born on July 7, 1933 in Canora, SK. She was the ninth of 11 children born to Alexander and Mary Shapko. Ruth was educated at the Canora Elementary School and Canora Composite High School. Ruth and Ed were married February 15, 1958 and spent the beginning of their married years together in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, moving for a short time to Regina and finally settling in Winnipeg in 1968. During their 49 years together many happy times were spent, and memories made, in rinks watching the boys play hockey, entertaining friends and traveling to hot spots, with Ruth having a particular fondness for Maui. Ruth was a wonderful woman who always put her family first. Her greatest pleasures were family times, endless summers at the pool, poker games with family and friends, watching her grandchildren grow and preparing those fabulous family meals. Her door was always open, the coffee was on and it was never any trouble to lay an extra plate for dinner. Everyone was welcome in her home, particularly her children's friends. Perhaps the greatest evidence and legacy of Ruth's loving heart is seen in the devotion of her grandchildren. Their love for her is endless. Spending time with Baba was always special, whether she was teaching them crib, poker, or knitting, or sneaking them treats before dinner. Baba's treat drawer was never empty. One of her greatest gifts was instilling in each of them a true respect and love for their Ukranian heritage. While we mourn her passing, we smile knowing that while listening to Elvis she is catching up with family and friends around the dinner table, planning her next bingo game, watching over us all and reminding Remember - no hats at the table . We will miss her terribly but treasure the lasting memories of our times with her. Rest in Peace Ruth, Mom, and Baba, we love you - you will never be forgotten. The family would like to extend our sincere thanks to the 3rd Floor East Wing staff of Riverview Health Centre, in particular Barb, for the wonderful care Ruth received during her final days. In keeping with our gratitude, memorial donations may be made to the Riverview Health Centre. A memorial service will take place on Saturday, January 27, 2007 at 12:3 p.m. at the Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB. The Reverend Ken Turnbull will officiate. A reception will follow.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 25, 2007