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Ruth Hillevi Shanko (Tuovila)

March 18, 2007

Born in Overtonia, Sweden on July 8, 1923. In 1929 Ruth’s family immigrated to Canada. She had many fond memories as a young adult working the orchards and vineyards of the Okanagan with her family. In 1950, she married Lee in Kelowna. They had their only child, Dave, in 1951. Their next 12 years were spent in logging camps and following road construction. Settling in Little Fort in 1963, her next 10 years were spent running local restaurants. Mammy was known more for her generosity and kind heart than her business approach. Ruth moved to Kelowna to care for her father in his latter years. It was here where she took up her final residence. Many happy hours were spent with her siblings. The light of her life was granddaughter Lynn. In July of 2006 she was proud to be a great-grandmother to Samanah Francesca.

On March 18, 2007 Ruth passed away peacefully in her sleep. Mammy will always be remembered for her huge heart, caring ways, and her wonderful sense of humor. Her greatest enjoyment was being with her family.

Ruth was predeceased by husband Lee; parents Tor Gustav and Svea Julia; brothers Lars, Jim, Car, Bud and sister Stena. Survived by son Dave (Babes); granddaughter Lynn (Andrew Ross); great-granddaughter Samanah Francesca; sisters Mary, Greta, Val and Alice; sisters-in-law Jean and Betty Tuovila.

We are deeply  grateful to Val Hosler, Lynn Dalziel, and Jean Tuovila for their special care and compassion over the years. An extended thank you to the staff at Cottonwood Care Centre, Kelowna. 

A memorial service was held in Kelowna on March 22, 2007 at the Chapel of First Memorial Funeral Services. Cremation.

Should friends desire donations to the Salvation Army, 1480 Sutherland Ave, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 5Y5 in memory of Mammy would gratefully be accepted.







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