Ruth Evelyn Downhour

Ruth (Berry) Downhour, age 94, passed away in Spokane, WA, August 22, 2023. Ruth was born on November 8, 1928, in Potlatch, ID. She attended school in Potlatch and graduated in 1948. After high school, she attended Kinman Business School prior to working in insurance and medical billing offices. She also volunteered at various schools. When well past normal retirement age, Ruth worked as a care giver for “older people.”

While riding the bus to and from business school Ruth met her future husband, Ron, whom she married in 1951. After three daughters were added to the family, the Army moved them to Germany, El Paso, Miami and Pittsburgh; finally returning to Spokane after Ron’s retirement from the Army. Ruth and Ron had 65-years together until Ron’s death in 2016.

At the age of 14-years, Ruth made the decision to follow the teachings of Jesus and remained true to that decision. In her later years, she would often say she wanted to be true to that decision “until the end of my life.” Ron and Ruth enjoyed hosting Sunday morning meetings in their home for several years. After Ron’s passing, Ruth was able to host a Wednesday morning Bible study in her apartment.

Ruth enjoyed crocheting blankets for grandchildren, decorating cakes and photographing people and places. She kept a very large collection of pictures mostly of those she knew and loved. Her favorite activity was traveling which she and Ron would do regularly during their retirement years.

Ruth was also preceded in death by her brother Larry, sister Ruby and son-in-law, Keith Young. Ruth is survived by three daughters: Raeleen (Bruce) Turner of Spokane; Risteen (Mark) Wineberg of Spokane; Rozena Young of San Antonio. Also surviving Ruth are nine grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.

The family is very thankful for eight years of help and care Ruth received while living at Royal Park Retirement. The family is also grateful to Horizon Hospice for the gentle care Ruth received during her final weeks. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ruth’s name to either of these organizations.

Funeral services are planned for September 8, 2023, at 12:30-pm at Ball & Dodd on Wellesley Avenue, Spokane. Viewing will be available at 11:30-am the day of the funeral with internment at 2:30-pm after the service.