Ernest Rutherford Ruth

Ernest Rutherford Ruth, known to friends as “Babe,” entered his eternal home on November 5, 2023 after a life of 95 years. He was born at home on November 6, 1928 in Lake Worth, FL to Ernest E. and Ralsa M. Ruth. Babe attended South Grade School, graduated from Lake Worth High School in the class of 1947, and attended Palm Beach Junior College. In 1950, he enlisted in the US Army where he served in Korea for two years. He was married to Dorothy Ballentine for 40 years until she passed away in 1991. He was married to Helen Duntze for 8 years until she passed away in 2000. Babe enjoyed singing, playing golf and cards, traveling, collecting, and the company of his many friends and family members. He loved the Lord and was involved in the ministry of Bethany Presbyterian Church (Fort Lauderdale), Lake Osborne Presbyterian Church (Lake Worth), and Gideons International. Babe is survived by his brother Doug (Pat) Ruth and children Doug, Jr., Kate, and Joe; daughters, Chris (Tony) Gibbs and children Amber, Elliott, Tyler, Alex, and Hampton; Cindy (Joe) Ansell and children William, Maggie, John, and Thomas; Sue (Jeff) Dube’ Jones and her children Mark and Aimee; Scott (Carolyn) Kinnes and children Beth and Doug; and Bonnie (James) Sturgis and children Dan, Grace, Josh, and Sarah. He was also blessed with 17 great-grandchildren. Babe was a man of God, a remarkable father, and a faithful friend who has left a legacy which will live on in our hearts. Arrangements are being made by Dorsey/E. Earl Smith Memory Gardens. A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 pm on January 20, 2024 at Lake Osborne Presbyterian Church, 2101 6th Avenue South, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33461. Donations in Babe’s memory may be made to Gideons International or to the Friends of the Lake Worth Beach Library.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.dorsey-smithmemorygardens.com for the Ruth family.