Ruth E. Ortiz

A reminder of Ruth came in my email today. I retired in January after 30 years of teaching. I often think of Ruth, miss her smile and the hours we spent talking.

That's a nice note, Paul. Thank you. I understand why you had a crush on Ruth. I did. Tomorrow would constitute 41 years of marriage and about 44 years together. I am departing to walk the Camino de Santiago the next day. It was the last hike Ruth and I did. I didn't realize she was dying, yet she walked 600 miles with her bone cancer causing intense pain and a severe hacking cough marking the breast cancer metastasizing further to her lungs. Ruth's strength always impressed me though never...

I knew Ruth quite well for the three years we overlapped at USC. I had a crush on her but was too shy to admit it. I remember her from a few dinners together, campus social events, and rock concerts. We met when we both lived in the dorms and then neighbors in the university apartments. She was always upbeat and had the most wonderful laugh. I would think about Ruth every few years since college and wonder where her life led her. Reading the memories left here has given me a picture of a...

In response to Jaleesa, thank you for sharing your experience with my wife. JFK called teaching the noblest profession. Ruth would be so proud to hear you followed her passion. She heard it from former students who regularly showed up in her classroom years later to share how that passion had influenced them. Whether students who are now teachers, scientists, or engaged parents, Ruth loved to learn how the young minds she hoped to influence have evolved. Congratulations to you on becoming a...

Ruth, Today is my college graduation, but I´m lucky to already have become a teacher at a job I truly love. There´s a possibility of me becoming a 5th grade teacher next year and all I could think of was you. Thank you for making my 5th grade/elementary memories so happy and fun. Rest well. Sincerely, Jaleesa

Another year, Ruth. This would be 41 years of marriage. Remember how we decided to travel while young because of the uncertainties of time and age? We were blessed to take advantage of time and our youth though we traveled well together right to the end. I have many wonderful memories and only wish we could make more. I miss you. My Ruth. You will be on the road with me always, but I miss you.

Five years, Ruth. What is it like to be among the Angels? I bet they love your laughter, your gentle ways, your regard for others, and how you comfort and offer genuine affection and support when it's needed. I always loved that about you and it's what made you a special friend, teacher, mother, wife, and now, Angel. You were also an especially sensitive and empathetic soul. I still marvel at how that expressed itself. Remember Marcos and Teresa in Kisumu, the Brazilian engineer and his...

Some people you can never forget. Ruth, you're one of those. Remembering you today with great fondness.

Starting a new school year and it made me think of you. So many years ago now when we worked together at Oak Hill. Our after work talks when our kids had to remind us to go home. Good times. You are missed Ruth.