Ruth Anna BORTHWICK

1926 - 2021

After 95 years of love and laughter, Ruth Anna (Mitchell) Borthwick leaves a rich and full legacy in the hearts and minds of her dear children Barbara, Cathy (Gary), and John (Vivian), her beloved grandchildren, Matt (Jamie), Lindsay (Derek), Emily (Shane), Scott (Karmela), Laurel (Mike), and Mark (Avery), and her cherished great-grandchildren Roza, Bella, and Thea, as well as her loyal brother-in-law Jim, and cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends. Predeceased by her parents Gladys (Middleton) and Jack Mitchell, parents-in-law Jean (Ferguson) and Walter Borthwick, brother and sister-in-law, Alan and Joan (Kilby) Mitchell, and her devoted husband of more than 64 years, John Borthwick (2014).

Born on May 4, 1926, on Water Street in Burlington (now Lakeshore Road) and delivered at home by her physician Uncle Norm, Ruth spent her childhood and early adulthood living in Hamilton. She was a park "supie" and a farmerette, contributing to WWII efforts. She graduated from Westdale Secondary School, and then McMaster University in 1947 with a history degree, and there she met her steadfast partner and love of her life, John. She attended the Hamilton Normal School for her teaching certificate and had a brief teaching career with the Hamilton Board of Education that still had a life-long impact for her, and for her 3 children, who also became Elementary School teachers.

Ruth enriched her community by volunteering as president of the Burlington Historical Society and working on a DVD and book about the Brant Inn, and as an active member of Port Nelson United Church. She was an avid reader, supported numerous charities, baked the very best date squares, prepared delicious home-cooked meals daily, loved travelling (with memorable trips to Scotland, England, Spain, Russia, Hawaii, Bermuda), and, most of all, loved time spent with her family members.

All who knew Ruth admired her keen writing ability and strong grammatical skills, and marvelled at her crossword puzzle and Jeopardy answers and Scrabble finesse. She was the pinnacle of generosity and an inspiration to all, leaving a lasting impression. She had a joyful and loving spirit, living with both kindness and compassion, all with her beautiful smile.

Contributions to Sleeping Children Around the World, Wesley Urban Ministries, or the CNIB in Ruth's memory would be appreciated.

In the future, a graveside service will be held for immediate family. Additionally, Ruth's family would like to thank the wonderful staff at The Village of Tansley Woods (R.H.), Senior Support Services - Mikaela and Olivia, Dr. Amanda Jerome, and Rev. Dr. Michael Brooks (Port Nelson United Church).

Ruth was the best parent and grandparent one could ask for, and a blessing to all who met her. She will be deeply missed.