RUTH EDITH MILLS

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RUTH EDITH MILLS

(nee BARTKO)

May 12, 1936 – August 1, 2026

Surrounded by her family, Ruth peacefully went home to be with the Lord on August 1, 2026, following a brief illness.

Born in Sclater, MB, Ruth was deeply proud of her farming roots and carried the values of hard work, resilience, and community with her throughout her life. She completed her early education in Sclater and move to Winnipeg to attend St. James Collegiate. In 1958, she met the love of her life, Tom. They married two years later and shared over 61 years of devoted partnership, building a life centered on faith, family, and love.

Ruth began her working career as a telephone operator with MTS and later as a Unit Clerk in the Medical Intensive Care Unit at Health Sciences Centre. Yet, when asked what she did for a living, Ruth would proudly reply that she was a "Domestic Engineer." It was a title she wore with both humour and conviction, reflecting a lifelong vocation of caring for others.

Her greatest joy was her family. Ruth dedicated herself wholeheartedly to raising her children and was a constant, loving presence in the lives of her grandchildren and later her great-grandchildren. She had a remarkable gift for bringing people together, whether through large family gatherings, holiday meals, or community events. No one ever left her table hungry.

A woman of tremendous energy and commitment, Ruth devoted countless hours to the organizations and communities she cared about, including CGIT, UCW, and amateur radio groups. She was known for her exceptional organizational skills, strong work ethic, and natural leadership. Ruth had a unique ability to keep projects moving, families connected, and ensuring her family was kept in line.

Ruth leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: her daughters, Wendy (Jim) and Judy (Tim); grandchildren, Christa (Damon), Jason (Kate), Darryl (Chantelle), Daniel (Kate), Hillary (Craig), Aydan, Brandt, and Lauren; sister, Judy (Patrick); her brother, Dennis (Donna); 14 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Tom (2020) and son Ken (2014).

Ruth's love, faith, strength, and unwavering devotion to family and friends will remain a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. Interment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ruth's memory may be made to the Fire Fighters Burn Fund or CancerCare Manitoba.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 19, 2026