Ruth Ann Colson

Martha, what a beautiful obit. Sounds like Ruth led an exciting life even if a short one. My sympathies to her brothers and to you. May God put his arm around all of you and give you his peace. JoAnn

May the family of dear Ruth find comfort in knowing that you are invited by our Creator, Jehovah God, to "throw all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7; Psalm 83:18) He is the "God of all comfort," and "is close to the brokenhearted." (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4; Psalm 34:18) Take care and please accept my condolences. (jw.org)

When I moved into my house in March 2001 little did I realize that I was lucky enough to be right next door to the most colorful and engaging personality I have ever met. Ruth Colson, without doubt, was the best neighbor a newly divorced woman could ask for. She was full of wise cracks, an infectious laugh and a red hot liberal to boot. Never one to hold back, Ruth would call a spade a spade and do it in such a way that it was totally acceptable - whatever the message. She told me she used to drive Van Gelda buses to and from Chicago which surprised me, almost as much as the amount of cocktails she could hold. In fact, I would bet she could drink anyone under the table as long as they were drinking Old Fashioneds (Sweet) or some even more exotic concoction. But then let’s not overlook her skill in the kitchen. I was put to shame with the amount effort she would put into preparing even a simple dish – the dish became supreme. She loved her garden and the lasagna garden was an eye-opener for me and the pattycake squash were super! It seemed obvious that Ruth was a life-long learner; she enjoyed reading good books and took every opportunity to join classes wherever they were. It was a tragedy when she became disabled since she had got the job she badly wanted, teaching young children who could not keep up with the mainstream. Ruth loved Scottie dogs, in fact Bonnie was her good mate for some years. We had decided to share a Scottie dog a couple of months ago, I said I would walk it and have it if she ever needed me to and she would have the pleasure of its company. I didn‘t particularly want a black Scottie but I would have done this for Ruthie since I loved her so much. But you know, we must also not overlook the fact that Ruth instigated the first ever Beverly Road block party, in fact she paid the $50 City permit to get it on its way. She loved sitting on her front porch and seeing all her neighbors, particularly the children, Sidney across the road being her all-time favorite chap. This neighborhood was her perfect spot, her porch her haven. She had a dream of us having one of those little “Take a Book Leave a Book” free libraries and we will make sure one is sited within range of her porch. And then we must not forget Halloween, Ruth was the ultimate Halloween Queen, it was her holiday and cobwebs, witches, and cauldrons were her hallmark for all the kids in the area. She was always grateful for help, she had a ready smile and an infectious chuckle and she was an inspiration to me because, you know, through those terrible health issues I never heard her complain once. I don’t want to finish without saying how incredibly loving her brothers have been through their terrible ordeal these last few weeks. They faced the inevitable with a strength that cannot be matched and their loss and the family's loss must be unbearable. I hope Ruth’s own example of strength and courage can comfort them in some small way. She is at peace - what more could we ask for our good pal? Carol & Tim #4259

My sympathies to John and Stuart and all of Ruth's family. It was so good to see her back on her porch, and amazing to see her brothers there for her in the last weeks. We always loved to chat with Ruth when she sat on her porch as we passed by on our dog walks, and smell the delicious food she was grilling. Ruth was a great person and neighbor and we will miss her so much. Amy, Tom and Sidney @ 4256

Having recently started to use the internet I looked up Ruth and was so sad to hear of the news. So sorry to hear of the passing of Ruth. We were best friends in high school and had lots of laughs, great times and adventures. Sadly we lost touch but I always thought about her. I will never forget Ruth and my thoughts go out to her family during this sad time. Deepest condolences. Jo Hughes (Nee Hext) Liverpool UK.