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Ruth Dodge Obituary
She had a wonderful enthusiasm for life and a limitless love of people. Born March 27, 1919, in Portsmouth, N.H., she was one of five children, the second daughter of Russell and Gladys (Sanderson) Berry. She grew up on a farm on Fox Point in Newington, N.H. When the family moved to Alton, N.H., she was active in sports, had her own horse and graduated from Alton High School in 1936. Better known as ‘Bunny,' her nickname is derived from bunt, as in baseball.
After graduating from Keene Normal School (Keene State College) she taught in various elementary schools in New Hampshire and Vermont. As a physical education teacher at the Claremont Junior High School she established gymnastics and Miss Posture programs, and organized presentations for parents, including gymnastics, prize speaking, dance recitals and operettas.
During the early years of teaching in Meriden, N.H., she met Ralph "Cap" Dodge. They married in 1943 and together they designed and built their home high on a hill in Claremont, N.H. (driving every nail by hand), and renovated two cottages in York Beach, Maine. She enjoyed hosting and entertaining at both places in Maine as well as at their winter home in Florida. She also enjoyed refinishing furniture, and collecting and selling antiques. While Cap was away with the Navy during World War II, Bunny worked on braided rugs and did tole painting and stenciling.
She was active with sports and clubs, especially skiing and golfing, and received numerous awards and medals. She was member of the Mount Sunapee Ski Club and a charter member of Beta Sigma Phi and held all offices, earned all degrees, finishing with the Diamond degree. She was a member of the Congregational Church of Claremont, and taught Sunday School there. She loved music, sang, and played the piano.
She is survived by her husband, Ralph "Cap" Dodge, 96, of Concord, N.H.; sister Elizabeth and brother-in-law Charles Manos of Peabody, Mass.; son David Dodge and daughter-in-law Kathryn of Peterborough, N.H.; numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews; and all her friends who she considered extended family. Plans for a memorial service in May will be forthcoming.
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Memories and Condolences
for Ruth Dodge
Kelley Meade
December 9, 2022
I still miss you today Bunny. I think of you and Cap often. So many wonderful memories my family has being with you in Maine. You were such a loving and happy soul. Whenever I see a yellow bird I think of you because I would see you walking in the far distance with your yellow top on. Please hug Cap for me. RIP.
Paula Lizor
December 31, 2017
I was just thinking of Bunny and Cap. Decided to look them up only to see this. They were beautiful people. My in laws rented from them every Summer for 2 weeks . They will be missed.
Kelley Meade
March 28, 2016
I will forever miss my dear friend Bunny. I can hear your voice and laughter from within my heart. I will treasure all the memories together at York with you and at your home. Thanks for all your love and faith in me and my family. I will miss you forever more.
Catherine Blades
January 1, 2016
I am so sorry to learn of Bunny's passing. I will always treasure having known her. Her energy and spirit were contagious. My condolences to her family.
Marie Allen
January 1, 2016
I only had the pleasure of Bunny the last couple of years. I run a golf. Program called"dodys Kids" in Claremont. Dody (Belski) talked fondly of Bunny. I found her and Cap and had many great conversation. She was an amazing lady. I feel blessed that our paths crossed please let me know about her remembrance in the spring.
Cyndee Tenney
December 15, 2015
I also had the privilege of having Mrs. Dodge as a PE teacher as well as a basketball coach. She was great! Went to school with her son, David---we were on the same bus too. I offer my best wishes to the family. I am from Claremont, NH but now live in Oklahoma.
Lauri Bessey
December 15, 2015
I was just thinking of her today. Some of her one liners as she tried to guide us junior high school aged girls. I'm thankful for her lessons.
marie lambert
December 15, 2015
RIP Mrs Dodge You were truly an inspiration to many. Thank You
Brenda Lyman
December 15, 2015
Mrs. Dodge was my physical education teacher from 1969-1971. She always greeted me with a smile. I have epilepsy and she always dealt with my seizures in a gentle way. May she rest in peace and God bless her family.
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