RUTH BELLA HICKS

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RUTH BELLA HICKS April 3, 1927 - October 18, 2016 It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our Mom and Gramma on October 18, 2016 at St. Boniface Hospital. Over the years she endured many medical procedures and approached each one with great strength and bravery as she did on this day. She was much loved and will be greatly missed. Ruth is survived by her daughters Beverlee Hicks and Shellee Watt, granddaughter Leslee Watt (Brent Moyer), much loved great-grand-dog, Nanda Bear, and youngest sister, Shirley Miles (nee Pico). She is predeceased by her devoted husband, Jack Hicks, to whom she was happily married for 58 years. Ruth was born into a large family of eleven children in Swan River, Manitoba, where she spent most of her youth. At age 15 she was diagnosed with tuberculosis and spent the following seven years in the sanatorium in Ninette, Manitoba. During that time, she met Jack and they married in 1952. As newlyweds Jack's job with CNR took them to remote areas where Ruth honed her wilderness culinary skills, preparing fresh caught fish and wild game, and perfecting her Saskatoon pies. Daughters Beverlee and Shellee arrived in quick succession and the family eventually settled in Moosehorn, Manitoba. An exceptional homemaker, Ruth lovingly created a well-organized, tidy home and became well known for her baking and ability to prepare delicious feasts. Ruth was also very active in the community. She was a member of the local Eastern Star Chapter and a 4H leader, and could often be found volunteering at the curling club, bingo hall and at various community events. Leisure time was spent with the family snowmobiling, curling, playing cribbage and scrabble and enjoying summers at their cottage in Steep Rock on Lake Manitoba. Once Jack retired they moved to Pilot Mound, Manitoba where Ruth became an avid golfer. They became 'snow birds' and spent many winters in Texas and Arizona perfecting their game. In 2008 Ruth and Jack moved to Concordia Village in Winnipeg. Ruth was a proud Mother and Gramma and enjoyed telling the other residents about her family. As per Ruth's wishes, a private family funeral will be held at a later date. Ruth loved animals, especially dogs, so in lieu of flowers donations can be sent to Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter, 3062 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, R3K 0Y1 or Darcy's Ark, 730B Century Street, Winnipeg, R3H 0M1. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 22, 2016