FORT WAYNE, Ind. — She was ready to start living the truly wonderful life waiting for her as God called her home November 30, 2017. Ruth Ellen Gordon was born October 21, 1927 in Ft. Wayne at Lutheran Hospital.
For 90 years, Ruth Ellen, daughter of Ruth M. and Ralph G. Cooke, lived a beautiful life for which she was infinitely grateful. She met the man she would marry on a double date. He was not her date that night, but Robert R. Gordon would be her date and dear love for the next 57 years until his death October 3, 2001.
She spent a lifetime enjoying a very close bond with her sister, Beverly, even hearing her first cry because she was born at home. She had a special rapport with her cousin Alyce Crumrine, who proceeded her in death 2008. Her lunch bunch first became friends during the years she worked at Shawnee Maplewood School in the 1970's. Camaraderie was special, they shared life's joys and sorrow and supported each other through illness and loss. Her final years she lived in Indiana near her daughter Janey, this adventure included new friendships, playing cards regularly and gardening.
She is survived by her sister Beverly (Gene) Dotson; 6 children Bob (Missy) Gordon, Kathy (Bill) Bollig, Cindy (Ron) Ferguson, Janey (Mike) Chapman, Becky (Charley) Watka, and Tom (Claudia) Gordon; 15 grandchildren Bridgette (Rick), Brenda (Carter), Travis (Laura), Bethani (Bryan), Gregory, Heather, Bren (Cathie), Matt, Jennifer (Ian), Margeaux (Joe), Jessica (Ben), Lindsey (Josh), Alex, Lacey (Matt), Trenton; and 22 great grandchildren; niece and nephew Laura and Gianni. They were the true blessings of her life, heart and soul.
Ruth Ellen believed every life has its cheerful and dark hours, and one's level of happiness comes from which you chose to remember. Visiting Nurse Hospice of Ft. Wayne consoled Ruth Ellen and family through her journey which we will be forever grateful. We will fondly remember Ruth Ellen's smile and loving legacy at a date yet to be determined.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to Visiting Nurse Hospice, Ft. Wayne, Ind.
Online contributions may be made by visiting www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Barbara Hofferth
December 7, 2017
So happy we got to meet your mom on her 85th birthday, also got to visit while she was in Az. She was such a joy and blessing to us all. She gave her sis the same wonderful smile and gift.
Mike & Jackie Meadon
December 5, 2017
Bob sorry to hear of your mother passing, my deepest sympathy to you and your family, may God bless you in these trying times
Joanne Bushby
December 5, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Your Mom was such a sweetheart. I smile just thinking of her, especially being frisked at the airport not many years ago. Cherish your memories of her and know God has her in His home now.
Regina Popp
December 5, 2017
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of your Mother. I have such wonderful memories of your Mother's kind heart.
Regina (Hollar) Popp
December 5, 2017
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your Mother. I have such wonderful memories of your Mothers kind heart.
Regina (Hollar) Popp
Joe Yazel
December 5, 2017
I have so many dear memories of Ruth Ellen, Big Daddy and the whole Gordon Family' going back over 60 years to 581 Harrison Ave.
I share in your sadness with many fond memories. My love to you all at this difficult time.
Bob and Sharon Daniels
December 4, 2017
Words of sympathy are sent with the hope that, as time goes by, cherished memories will help bring you inner peace, and make your your Mother seem still very close. The memories that mean the most to you live forever in your hearts.
Warren and Joann Crites
December 4, 2017
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Warren and Joann Crites
December 4, 2017
Thinking of you all at this difficult time. Find peace in the joyful memories you hold dear to your heart.
Cindy & Mike Rader
December 4, 2017
She was blessed with a graceful elegance, kindness and beauty. She will be so dearly missed. Prayers for strength and comfort for the family.
Larry Davis
December 4, 2017
Dear Friends(Gordon Family), We are very sorry to learn that Ruth Ellen's life with us has come to a close. "Ruthie & Big Daddy" were my favorite (friends) parents, and I will always cherish the memories of those wonderful times with all the Gordon Family at their loving home on Harrison Street. Sincerely, Rhonda & Larry Davis
December 4, 2017
We are so sorry to learn of the passing of Ruth Ellen. She was one class act. Love to the entire family, especially Kathy, Janey, Cindy, Becky, Tommy and Bob
Ron and Julie Zeigler
December 4, 2017
Bob, Sorry to hear about the passing of your mother.I know you will miss her but will always have fond memories of her.
Dan Roush
December 4, 2017
Cindy, I am sorry to hear of your mother's passing. My prayers and sympathy are with you.
Jackie Whited Lusk, Easley, South Carolina
Chris & Joe Williams
December 4, 2017
Bob, so sorry for your loss. You and your entire family have our deepest sympathy.
December 4, 2017
It deeply sadden my heart on reading of Ruths passing.She was a kind and gracious woman who had peace in her heart.Everyone was blessed by being in Ruths presence. Randy & Paula Frankhouser
Gregg & Kelly Rigel
December 4, 2017
Tom I am so sorry to here of your mothers passing. Kelly and I will be thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
Carolyn Morrisey
December 4, 2017
Dear Family,
I was saddened to hear of her passing. She was a very special lady and a blessing in my life.
Carolyn Morrisey
December 4, 2017
Janey, you and your family have my deepest sympathy.
Nancy(Lauck) Rockhold
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