Ruth West Denney

1921 - 2010

Ruth West Denney April 10, 1921 - October 17, 2010 A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, October 30, 11:00 a.m., at RiverLakes Community Church to celebrate the life of Ruth Denney. Ruth West Denney was born in Tigard, Oregon. She was the 6th of eight children born to Harry and Louise West. She was active in high school, glee club, and youth group. Ruth had her first date with Bill at age 13. Bill was 14. She married Bill, a dairyman, at age 20. After her husband became involved in the family logging business they moved to Willhemina, OR, followed by moves to Northern California, Reno, NV, and Lake Isabella, CA. Upon retirement from logging they moved to Bakersfield, CA in 1974 they felt lead to go into full-time ministry. Ruth was primarily a homemaker, busy raising five children. She imparted to them her faith in God through daily devotions, prayer and Bible verse memorization. She loved the Lord and served faithfully alongside her husband at Fruitvale/ RiverLakes Community Church, teaching Sunday school and children's home Bible clubs, singing, leading adult Bible Studies and support groups. She had many close friends to whom she imparted her personal faith and values. She epitomized a woman who was unwavering in living out her faith and beliefs. Ruth is survived by her loving husband of 69 1/2 years, William (Bill) Denney; sons, Clifford (wife Connie) and Bill (wife Theda); daughters, Harriet Schaad (husband David), Kathryn Forshey-Trabert (husband Tom) and Margaret Kiltz; 15 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; two older sisters; an older brother; and a younger brother. She was preceded in death by her father Harry A. West; mother, Louise West; step-mother, Edna West; and numerous other family members. For the last several months her greatest desire was to go to heaven and meet her Heavenly Father. God has graciously answered her prayers. The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to RiverLakes Community Church Vacation Bible School scholarship fund. Basham Funeral Care www.bakersfield.com/obits