It is with heavy hearts and a profound sadness that we announce the private and quiet passing of Ruth Butt (née Connors) on September 13, 2023, after losing her battle with cancer.  

Ruth was born on August 11, 1947, the youngest of four to the late Joseph and Margaret Connors.  She grew up in St. John’s, Newfoundland alongside her three siblings Bernice (William deceased), James, and the late Joseph (Marga). Her fondest memories of her childhood were of the times spent in the family snack bar, and she loved to tell stories of all the escapades she and her siblings would get up to. Though her family would move on to live in Ontario for a short while, she eventually settled down and planted her roots in Calgary, Alberta in 1974.

Ruth leaves behind her two daughters, Sharon (Walter), and Linda (Trevor) whom she loved dearly.  She celebrated their accompaniments and joys and was very proud of the families they created for themselves. There was a special place in her heart for each of her 4 grandsons (Dailen, Mason, Miles and Riley) and she would proudly speak of them to everyone.

Ruth had a cherished bond with her niece, Barb, and her grandniece, Jennifer, both of whom helped her immensely as she struggled with her illness, and she was very appreciative and grateful for everything they did for her.  She was also fortunate to have many other family members who, at various times over the years, stepped up to assist her, and she always felt a special love, appreciation, and gratitude for each and every one of them.

Ruth’s Grandpuppy Hudson brought an abundance of laughter, love, and kisses (aka face washes) into Ruth’s life as well. Their companionship was a testament to the joy animals bring us all, and for that Hudson held a very special place in her heart.

Ruth was not only a devoted Daughter, a loving Mother, a proud Grandmother (Nanny), a cherished Sister, and a caring Aunt, she was also a confidante and a special friend to many. She embraced life with a genuine love for the simple pleasures it had to offer her.  Whether it was a chat with a friend over a coffee, smoothie or frosty; a stroll in the community garden; a quick trip for an Ice Cream; a few hours snuck out to the casino; an unexpected invitation to a pizza dinner; a game of Chase the Ace or Scrabble; 10 cent Bingo day; participating in shuffleboard; afternoon BBQ’s; going to Jubilations with family/friends; or just the sharing of stories and jokes while participating in the many different social gatherings that took place in the building in which she lived. She always felt fulfilled and enjoyed each and every moment with a genuinely pure and open heart, and truly treasured the friendships and memories that were created.

Ruth was well known for her mischievous grin as she looked over her glasses with her beautiful blue eyes and her face could be seen lighting up with the sweetest special smile every time the word “Rooth” showed up on her phone. Those close to Ruth knew that there was never any doubt of her emotions as she always held them genuinely on her sleeve, and her beautiful face was always full of expression, displaying her every thought and feeling for those quick enough to catch them.  

Anyone that met Ruth would have learned that her soul resonated with the melodies of The Beatles, and she was always excited to share that she saw them live in her younger years.  And, in the end, it was their music that brought her a sense of peace, calmness and comfort throughout her final days, crying her final tear and taking her last breath to “The Long and Winding Road”.

In honor of Ruth’s memory, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her name to Pilgrims Hospice Society, Roozen Family Hospice Center, whose incredibly devoted staff and volunteers provided the exceptional care and loving environment she wished for during her final days. https://pilgrimshospice.com/get-involved/make-a-donation/

At Ruth’s request, a private family interment will take place in St. John’s, NFLD at a later date, when the fog has lifted, and the sun is shining down once again.

Rest in Peace now Ruthie Blue with no more pain or sorrow.  Your memory will live on and hold a special place in our hearts….until we meet again.