Ruth Arlene Tracy's Obituary
Ruth Arlene (Elvik) Tracy
Passed away peacefully, with family by her side, the evening of December 19, 2019. Born in Carthage, South Dakota on September 27, 1931 to Norwegian immigrants John and Anna (Eidsness) Elvik, she was the last of 12 children- but certainly not the least.
Ruth's sweet disposition and wide, ready smile made everyone who had the pleasure of meeting her feel welcomed and at ease. She put those traits to good use, doting on husband John "Donnie" (deceased), her five children, Patricia (deceased), Allen, Thomas, John, and Donna, and making sure each and every one of her grandchildren and great grandchildren knew just how much she truly loved them. No holiday would pass without a flurry of correspondence being sent out from her heart, with a handwritten note and a photocopied poem suitable for the occasion enclosed.
Her customers at the old Sambos/Cattin's restaurant on South Tacoma Way, where she waitressed for over 20 years, really enjoyed receiving their never ending cups of coffee accompanied by her genuine, so very glad to see you, smile. Ruth was the perfect hostess at home, too, always quick to refill cups and plates, and just as quick to whisk them away; her place at the table while entertaining was always the one closest to the kitchen to ensure everyone received plenty of her special attention. Perhaps for that reason, she also enjoyed dining out, frequently meeting up with friends and neighbors at their favorite places around town, with coupons to share at the ready.
Ruth traveled the world with her family, visiting relatives in Norway and even living for short stays in France and Japan, finally making her home in Tacoma, WA around 1970. Her home was always open, a place of refuge for many friends and relatives, and included warm hugs upon arrival, as well as a heartfelt “Thanks a million” hug upon departure. A visit with Ruth might include dryer warmed pillows, or a warmed blanket as a surprise when one retired for the night, and the coffee would be ready for you in the morning, too.
Ruth shared many stories about the days growing up with her brothers and sisters, especially Grant and Junior, on "the old farm." She often described her shyness as a child, where she would hide in the folds of her mother’s skirts when visitors came. This made it easy for her to lovingly care for her children and grandchildren who sometimes displayed similar traits at large family gatherings. She’d often recall the preparations involved when the “thrashers” came to help on the farm, and boy she could always whip up a rib-sticking meal when guests came to her house, too. There were many stories which perfectly depicted the loving values which made her so special. Well, actually she never did like taking care of the pigs... and although she developed Alzheimer’s disease in her last few years, she never forgot that fact!
She was a hard worker her whole life and now it's her turn to rest. Special thanks are extended from her surviving family to her caregivers at Tacoma Lutheran Home, North Ridge, especially Patricia, and Keisha (Michelle) and many others who lovingly cared for her daily.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you honor her legacy of love by remembering to always be kind, and take a moment to simply say, "I love you, (a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck)." Donations and visits may also be made, in her name, to United Lutheran Church in Tacoma, ( www.unitedlutherantacoma.org )where her sweet soprano voice and warm smile are remembered fondly.
What’s your fondest memory of Ruth?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ruth?
Share a story where Ruth's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ruth you’ll never forget.
How did Ruth make you smile?
