Ruth Evelyn Pede (Girvitz) passed away peacefully at St Joseph’s Hospice in Sarnia on January 10, 2024 at the age of 92 with her loving family by her side. Ruth is survived by her son Geoff Pede (Elizabeth), her daughter Darlene Pede (Terry Knott), her brother Gerry Girvitz and her sister in law Jacqueline Pede. She is also survived by her precious grandchildren of whom she adored, Rachel Elliott (Andrew), Danielle Robb, (Aaron), Jessica Pede (partner Jeff Burr), Rebekah Freele (Matt) Alex Pede, Joshua Pede, Renee Pede (Carson Riczu), Jeff Pede and her precious great grandson Adrian Robb. She was predeceased by her loving husband Robert Pede of 49 years (2001), sons Ronald Pede (2007) and Dennis Pede (2021) and daughter-in-law Patricia Pede (2022), as well as her brother-in-law Joris Pede and sister in law Irena Van Durme.
Also predeceased by her brother Albert Girvitz and sisters Phyllis Cannon and Sally Poste. She was the much loved Auntie to many nieces and nephews. Ruth was born in Winnipeg Manitoba and moved to Sarnia when she was a young girl. She worked as a homemaker, waitress at the Shoreham Restaurant and finished her working years at Smyth’s Market. Mom was a fiercely independent woman and loved to do things her way. When asked to try something new, it was never a question, only let’s go. She was an active woman who enjoyed traveling, bowling, playing cards with the Silver threads group in Sarnia and her favourite game in later years was Rummy tile. She loved taking care of her flower gardens and was especially proud of her roses, poppies and daylilies. The family would like to express our sincere gratitude to the staff at Rosewood for the loving care of mom during her time there. The Bayshore Health Care Team were also instrumental in helping as they worked alongside the Rosewood Team ensuring mom was well cared for. The family would also like to express how much the Palliative Care Team, especially Dr. Lilly with his never ending support for making such a difference in the quality of life mom maintained during her last few years. Mom spent her final days at St. Joseph’s Hospice. The family is so thankful for the loving care mom received during her stay. The staff at St Joseph’s are truly angels on earth and our community is very fortunate to have this amazing facility. Friends and family are welcome at Smith’s Funeral home, January 15, 2024 with visitation from 10-11 am, and a funeral service following at 11 am. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice in Sarnia (cheques only at the funeral home please).
