It is with deep sadness the family of Ruth Martha Dovell announces her passing at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital on Saturday, October 8, 2016.
Ruth was born in Ravenscrag, Saskatchewan and grew up on the family farm in the Clear Valley district located southeast of the Cypress Hills in Saskatchewan. Mom’s family were part of the early pioneers who learned to live off the land and where she acquired her skills of gardening, canning, baking, knitting and sewing.
Ruth went to Normal School in Moose Jaw where she attained her teaching degree. She returned home to her first teaching position, a one room school (grades 1 to 6) in the North Bench district. Her day would start early because she would travel there by saddle horse, start the wood stove and get ready for her students. Her next posting was in Eastend, Saskatchewan where she met the love of her life, Leonard (Bud). They married in Eastend in 1949 and found their way to Marysville, BC to build a house and raise their family. Her love of teaching never left and she convinced Bud to build an addition on the house where she taught kindergarten for 15 years. In 1965 they bought property in Ta Ta Creek, built a house and moved there in 1966 where she again taught kindergarten for 7 years.
The passions of Mom’s life were family, church, garden and camping. The family gatherings were always at their place where many beautiful meals were prepared. Church was a big part of Ruth’s life. She was in charge of the Sunday School programs at both the Marysville and Wasa Community Churches. She took pride in the fact she was a Christian and she was ready to get to heaven.
Ruth loved the outdoors and her garden gave her many hours of pleasure. She loved camping and travelling with the Good Sam Club where she could play horseshoes, bocci and bean bag toss. She loved fishing on Lake Koocanusa and canning jars of kokanee.
Ruth was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Leonard; mother Ella Shufletoski, father Frank Shufletoski, brothers Lewis, Henry (Bun) and sister, Cecile Gallot. Left to mourn her passing are her sons Albert (Joan), Gerry (Lorna), Ronnie (Dorothy), Danny (Chitrika), accepted daughter Dawn Dovell (Pollok) as well as many grandkids and great grandkids.
At Ruth’s request, there will be no funeral service. Condolences may be left for the family at www.markmemorial.com
Mark Memorial Funeral Services in care of arrangements 9250) 426-4864.