RUTH WHITFORD (GUSTAFSON)

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RUTH WHITFORD (nee GUSTAFSON) On Sunday, November 8, 2009, while watching her beloved Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Ruth Whitford, widow of Irv Whitford, passed away peacefully with family at her side. Lovingly remembered by Irv's children, Jan Whitford (Michael Stevenson), Doug and Jan Whitford, grandchildren, Kristina (James Vida), Michael and Caitlin and great-grandchild Madison. Forever cherished by her nieces and nephews, Gord and Roy Smith, Ethel Nickel, Joan May, Randy, Donald, Roger and Laura Gustafson, Bryon, Rick and Laird Batchelor, Carol Dundas and their families. Ruth was predeceased by her husband Irv and all her siblings, Walter, Thelma Smith, Ralph, Eric, Roy and Margaret Batchelor. Born in 1919 in Gretna, MB, Ruth spent her early years there until moving to Cypress River where she graduated from high school. She went to college in Pembrook, ON before returning to start her career in Winnipeg. In the early 1940s she became a stenographer at Marshall Wells and continued there until 1978 when she retired as Executive Secretary to the VP. Shortly after retiring she married her boss and love of her life, Irv. Ruth loved to travel, starting early with train travel to Boston, Calgary and Lake Louise. After retirement, she especially loved cruising in many parts of the world with Irv. Dressing up and going dancing was their style. Summers spent in Ontario with family and friends, and part of each winter travelling to many different warmer climes. They had a wonderful 22 years together. Ruth thrived at being an aunt. She was the centerpoint who kept the whole Gustafson clan connected. She loved being with family and friends. She was always upbeat and fun to be with. Her eyes sparkled when she saw or talked about the people she loved. Ruth enjoyed sports her whole life. She skated in her early years, and also golfed and curled (Strathcona Business Girls), winning many bonspiels. A lifelong CFL fan, she was a season ticket holder for her Blue Bombers for decades. Earlier this year she planned her 90th birthday party in detail. She had such joy in celebrating this marker with her close friends and family. She was a proud and independent woman. A very classy lady. We loved her dearly. The family would like to thank the staff of 4E St. Boniface Hospital for their compassionate care in Ruth's last weeks. A special thanks to Ruth's wonderful neighbour, Maureen Sitar for her many acts of kindness during the past few years. Memorial service will take place at John Black Memorial United Church, 898 Henderson Hwy. on Wednesday, November 18 at 11:30 a.m. Interment at Chapel Lawn. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory to the charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 14, 2009