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Elzinga, Ruth

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It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of RUTH ELZINGA. She left us too soon and will be dearly missed. Ruth had a massive stroke in the early morning hours of Wednesday, January 22 and passed away peacefully on Friday, January 24, 2020, surrounded by her loving family.

RUTH LEANNA ELZINGA

Aug. 16, 1946 - Jan. 24, 2020

It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of RUTH ELZINGA. She left us too soon and will be dearly missed. Ruth had a massive stroke in the early morning hours of Wednesday, January 22 and passed away peacefully on Friday, January 24, 2020, surrounded by her loving family.

She is mourned by her beloved husband of 55 years, Auke along with daughters, Candice (Shane Connelly) and Dana (Gavin McCaffrey), grandchildren, Bridget, Kierra and Ainsley, sister Faye (Lothian), and her nieces, nephews and their children.

Ruth was predeceased by her loving parents, Leo and Margaret Peters, her sister, Vangie (Heynen) and cousin, Linda (Cohen).

Ruth was born in Coaldale and moved to Lethbridge as a young girl. She graduated from Winston Churchill High School where she was later inducted into their Hall of Fame for her years of service to this community.

She was a vital volunteer with a massive heart and generous spirit. She served as a School Trustee from 1981 to 1986 and as an Executive of the Alberta School Trustee Association (ASTA).  Ruth was then elected as an Alderman where she served two terms from 1986 to 1992. Ruth worked extensively with the City of Lethbridge Health Unit and on the National Board of Directors for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).  She was also recognized by the Alberta Human Rights Commission for leadership taken in providing Aboriginal representation on municipal boards, commissions and committees. Following her years on council, Ruth continued her public service on the Regional Health Authority, Health Professionals Advisory Board and many other boards and committees.

Ruth was an active Member of First Baptist Church, serving on the Board of Deacons, and loved the time she spent studying the scriptures with her weekly Bible Group. As a young mother, she enjoyed the friendship of her Sorority Sisters (Beta Sigma Phi) and often spoke of fond memories and good friends.

Ruth was a woman with a deep faith that gave her enormous strength and compassion for others. She touched the lives of all she knew with her kindness, generosity and exuberant personality. A beloved wife, cherished mother, doting grandmother, loving sister and loyal friend, Ruth was a pillar of strength for both her immediate and extended family. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, 1614 - 5 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB on Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Dr. Bruce Martin officiating. A Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to World Vision (donate.worldvision.ca) or Operation Smile (operationsmile.ca/please-give/), charities close to Ruth's heart.