Ruth Janet Martin (nee Shaw)

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Ruth grew up around and literally in the University of Alberta, playing with the other children of professors and often visiting her father’s research laboratory. She herself graduated from the U of A with a nursing degree and would remain lifelong friends with those cherished “Sept. ‘57” classmates. Ruth was a wonderful nurse and, later, an exceptional nursing instructor. As a devoted wife and mother, Ruth lived with her family in Edmonton, Kelowna, and Calgary. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, intelligence, and sense of humour, all gifts she shared with the world in a quiet, unassuming way.

Ruth’s family would like to thank the excellent staff of St. Marguerite Manor, where she lived since 2021, for their caring, professionalism, and humanity, and to the residents for welcoming her into their community. Thank you as well to the Foothills Medical Centre, especially the nurses and staff of Unit 42, for the care and compassion they showed Ruth and her family during her final hours.

Ruth is survived by her son James and daughter-in-law Tine; her treasured grandchildren Sarah and Linus; her sister Anne; and niece Kathleen. Ruth was predeceased by her parents, Mary and Dr. Robert Shaw; her husband John; her son John Jr. (Laura); and nieces Louise and Jane.

Please join her family in celebrating Ruth’s life on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Foster’s Garden Chapel, 3220 4 St N.W., Calgary.

Ruth believed in helping neighbours, and that everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed and thrive. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Mustard Seed, an organization dedicated to helping Calgarians who are experiencing homelessness and poverty. https://theseed.ca/ways-to-give