Obituary of Ruth Mildred Johnson

Johnson, Ruth Ruth Mildred Johnson passed away October 2, 2018 at the age of 94. Her passing came after a short, but brave battle with cancer. Ruth was born on the family farm in the Hilldrop district on December 3, 1923. She was the youngest daughter of John and Pearl Grimm. The family also consisted of one son, Arnold, and one other daughter, Muriel. The Grimm family increased by three more children when Ruth’s aunt passed away leaving three cousins to be raised with her. This made the Grimm household a busy, bustling home full of children and love. Ruth took all of her schooling at Hilldrop School. Getting to school would be walking the two miles or riding in the wagon box in the summer. In the winter it was with either the caboose or the horse and cutter. After finishing school, she worked out for a bit, but most of her time was spent at home helping with the family farm and chores. Ruth and George were married on June 26, 1946. They settled down to farming on what had been the Bud Bouma farm, eight miles west of Shellbrook. Their only child, Dale, was born nine years later. Ruth and George remained on the farm for the entire married life. In 1972, Ruth began working for Parks Canada in Waskesiu. She was employed there for fourteen years. She was later joined by George, who also worked at the park for nine years. Ruth and George were blessed with wonderful friends and neighbours. This connection to their farming community kept their life enjoyable and full. The social life also kept Ruth busy in the kitchen. She needed to make sure no one would go away hungry when they came to visit. After retirement, Ruth and George were able to enjoy several trips, some with friends on bus tours and others with family. Ruth remained on the farm after George’s passing in 1988. In 2006, she moved to Heritage Place in Shellbrook and continued expanding her circle of friends. Ruth is lovingly remembered by her son, Dale, wife Tamara and grandchildren Zoe and Zane. She is also survived by a very special cousin, Racie Headrick, whom Ruth was raised with, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and many cousins. She was predeceased by her husband George; her parents and in-laws; her brother, Arnold Grimm; her sister, Muriel Haroldson; her cousins, Gladys Loth and George Canaday. Many thanks to the wonderful caregivers at Parkland Integrated Health Center who took such great care of Ruth during her short stay. A Funeral Service will be held for Ruth on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. from the Parkside Pentecostal Assembly with Pastor Doug Hope officiating. Interment will follow in the Parkside Cemetery, and a time for lunch and fellowship will take place in the Parkside Heritage Centre after the interment. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in memory of Ruth may consider Shellbrook & Districts Health Services Foundation or to the Parkside Pentecostal Assembly. Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau "Lac" Funeral Home, Tammy Smart - Director (Shellbrook 306-747-2828).