Ruth Z. Kibbey

MARION - Ruth Z. Kibbey, 90, passed away Monday evening, February 16, 2009 at the Kingston Residence where she had resided for 11 years.
She was born November 20, 1918 in Canal Winchester, Ohio to Byron and Hazel (Tussing) Zwayer. On September 6, 1947 she married widower Robert E. Kibbey and became mother to his three young sons. He preceded her in death November 16, 1993.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Richard; and four sisters, Hattie, Margaret, Mary, and Edna.
She is survived by two sons, F. Byron (Heather) of Lake Oswego, Oregon, and C. Dale (Joani) of Marion, Ohio; Twelve grandchildren, Marc (Susan), Shand, Melissa, Rindi (Dan), Tohren (Liz), Tristy (Chris), Ilan (Jennifer), Kina, Lowinn (Mindy), Elisa, Joshua (Ashley), and Benjamin; and thirteen great-grandchildren, Matthew, Nathaniel, Jeremy, Josiah, Tucker, Claudia, London, Honor, Cordelia, Chelsea, Ethan, Alex, and Britton; Beth Jones, her caretaker for the past three years, has also become family.
Ruth was a lady who rose to any challenge whether it was to plaster a wall or tackle a rattlesnake, especially if told a woman couldn't do it. She poured out her creativity in jewelry making, knitting, ceramics, wood carving, to name a few. She loved dogs, especially Airdales. Summer months were spent in the cottage she loved in Canada. During retirement years, she and her husband spent months in Costa Rica. They traveled extensively.
She was close to her sisters, and the bond they formed was the glue that has kept the extended family close-knit. She will be missed by all.
As she wished, there will be no funeral or calling hours. Her life will be celebrated with a memorial service Saturday, February 28 at 1PM at the Kingston, 464 Jamesway, Marion. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to Hospice or the YMCA scholarship fund through Boyd funeral home.