Esther Alma Ruff's Obituary
Esther Alma Ruff
Esther Alma Ruff, born September 29, 1925, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 16, 2009. Esther is survived by her twin sons Dennis and Donald (Betsy); and her grandchildren Jonathan and Mary Pauline; three brothers and numerous nieces and nephews. Esther was born on her parents' farm near Ruff, Washington where she rode a horse to school. She moved to Tacoma in 1948 where she became a cook at Tacoma Public Schools, YMCA Camp Seymour and finally retired from the University of Puget Sound in the early 90's. She was active in the Portland Ave Baptist Church and the German's from Russia Club. Over the years she served as a foster mother and hosted many international students in her home. In 1991 she received The Community Service Award from the Pierce County Health Department for her role in establishing the Eastside Health Clinic. The family would like to express its gratitude to Franciscan Hospice and Heartwood Extended Care for their kindness, consideration and care. Donations in Esther's name can be made to the Esther Ruff Memorial fund, Community Health Care, 101 East 26th, Tacoma, WA 98421. A graveside service will be held at Mt. View Cemetery, February 20, 2009 at 1:30 pm.
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