Ruthie SHARPE

Ruthie was a spark at every gathering, known for her quick wit, fiercely loyal heart, and her ability to find joy in life’s simplest pleasures.  Her kitchen was always open; a place where teacups were never empty, and the scent of homemade bread, made guests feel at home.  She loved her garden, fussing over tomatoes and petunias and could often be found humming to herself as she worked the soil.  She was always delighted to share the bounty, whether it was fresh from the garden or the endless array of preserves and canning.

The last several years for Ruthie were coloured with the “disease of a thousand goodbyes,” also known as dementia.  Ruthie faced dementia with the same feisty spirit and stubborn resilience that defined her.  Even when memories grew fuzzy, her love shone bright, and her smile and laughter still filled the room.  The family extends our gratitude to Dr. L. Gadsden and all of the wonderful staff at Rocky Mountain Village in Fernie, B.C. for their service and support.  Ruthie moved from her home in Baynes Lake to her home at the Village in December 2021.  She brought her warmth and cheer along with her to residents and staff alike.  These final years have been bittersweet, but still full of the same laughter, love and flashes of Ruthie’s trademark sass.

Ruthie will be deeply missed by her caregiving family at the Village and a wonderful network of dear friends.  She is survived by her children; Grant (Karen), Ken (Kathi), and Pam.  Our beloved GG is also remembered by her four very special grandchildren; Cody, Amanda, David and Jennifer along with great-grandchildren; Gavin, Conner, Griffin, Tabitha, Morgan, and Kya, as well as the many nieces, nephews, and extended family who admired her wit and warmth.  She was predeceased by her parents, Leslie and Sarah (Simmons) Parsons; her husband of 72 years, Lloyd (January 2023), son-in-law Max Turyk (September 2024); and her siblings; Warren, Trena, Mildred, Harry, Charles, Marjorie, Weldon, Howard, and David.

Her legacy is gratitude; for her family, her friends, her full and wonder-filled life.  We are forever thankful for all of the ways she made lives brighter and better.  Rest well, Ruthie.

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