Ruth Bish

BISH, Ruth. Ruth Margaret Bish (nee Shoemaker) passed away peacefully with family at her side on October 3, 2013 at the age of 84. Ruth is fondly remembered by daughters Lucille Bish (Bill McAndrew) and Evelyn Bish; grandchildren Bruce McAndrew, Louise McAndrew, Jake White, and Nicole White; and family friend Kim MacIntyre. Predeceased by her husband William (Bill) in 2012.

A life-long Kitchener resident until her later years when she and Bill moved to Chatham, Ruth was the daughter of Emanuel (Manny) and Lillian Shoemaker. Manny was President of McBrine Luggage for many years. Ruth and Bill met at Kitchener-Waterloo Collegiate. They celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary on May 26, 2011.

Ruth attended Stratford Teachers’ College, then taught at several schools in Kitchener. But her joy and true vocation was caring for her husband, children and grandchildren. She celebrated our successes and comforted our sadness, always with calm words and a smile.

Ruth was active in Holy Cross Lutheran Church, particularly with the Women’s Guild. She loved the family cottage at Grand Bend, where she enjoyed swimming, reading on the beach, sunsets on the deck, and “happy hour” with her family and friends.

Friends may call at the Ratz-Bechtel Funeral Home, 621 King St. W., Kitchener, on Wednesday, October 9 from 2 – 4 p.m. and 7 – 8 p.m. A further visitation will be held on Thursday October 10 at 10 a.m., with the funeral service at 11 a.m., Pastor Nolan Astley officiating. Reception to follow at the Ratz-Bechtel Family Centre.

As an expression of sympathy, donations to the Foundation of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance would be appreciated in recognition of the doctors, specialists and nursing staff who cared for Ruth at both the Chatham and Sydenham Campuses. Condolences may be left at: www.ratzbechtelfuneralhome.com