Ruth Crook-Blackwell

1935 - 2012

Ruth Crook-Blackwell
Resident of Reno, Nevada
Mary Ruth Crook-Blackwell died suddenly November 13, 2012 at her home in Reno, Nevada
Ruth was born July 23, 1935 to Otto and Rotha Stewart. She was raised in La Puente, California on a dairy farm. While growing up she could often be found riding a horse in the hills of southern California. Ruth often played with the neighbor "Crook" boys, and eventually fell in love with one of the five brothers, Ron Crook. After marrying Ron, she continued her adventurous life. Once Ron returned from the Korean War; they began raising a family. Ruth didn't hesitate when her husband suggested they move to the territory of Alaska. From Alaska they found their way to Capitola where she settled into the community becoming active in her children's activities. Ruth was a den mother for the cub scouts as well as a brownie leader and stayed friends with many of the kids she got to know.
Ruth started her work career with the University of California at Santa Cruz in 1966. She was among the first employees when the campus opened. She was hired as a clerk typist and continued to elevate her status at UCSC where she retired as Executive Assistant to the Vice Chancellor. Although Ruth worked full time, she always made time for her family. Ruth always made everyone feel welcome in her home. There were many parties at her "Angela Drive" residence that are still talked and laughed about to this day.
After the passing of her husband Ron, she settled in Reno where she met her current husband Guy Blackwell. Ruth's love for travel was a common bond between them. She shared many traveling adventures in her lifetime; she visited Mexico, Hawaii, France, Ireland, her native homeland, Scotland, and numerous states throughout the U.S. One of her most memorable trips was with her friend to Albadanua, Brazil to see John of God, a spiritual and physical healer of international note. Ruth was a certified license Reikei therapist and worked with numerous clients.
Ruth loved life, and enjoyed it to the fullest. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. She will be remembered for her laughter and her zest for life.
She is survived by her husband Guy Blackwell. Children: Mike Crook, Rohnda Venturino and Jacque Hendricks. Grandchildren: Ryan Silva, Katlyn McCraken, Ronnie and Don Hendricks. Great grandchildren: William, Ethan, Lizzy and Allie. Step-children: Caroline Anderson and Scott Blackwell. Step-grandchildren: Jacob McCarthy and Ian Anderson. Numerous brothers and sister-n-laws, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Ron Crook, and son Wayne Crook.
There will be a celebration of her life to be held in Santa Cruz at a future date to be announced. Donation to the Make A Wish Foundation in honor of Ruth Blackwell - 1575 Delucchi Lane #118 - Reno, NV 89502 are greatly appreciated.