Ruth Solano De La Torre

Ruth Solano De La Torre, a longtime Watsonville resident, died on Dec. 7 with family by her side.

Born in San Diego, she moved to Watsonville with her family at a very young age. Mrs. Solano De La Torre attended local schools and had many friends in the community. During her early life, she worked for several canneries and nurseries. Best known for the years she spent working for the Watsonville Community Hospital, she gave 27 years of loyal service to the housekeeping department, many of those years in the maternity ward welcoming new babies into the world while comforting young mothers. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and friend. Her favorite hobby was spending time with her family.

Mrs. Solano De La Torre is survived by her brother, Alex Solano, and her five children: Arcelia Rudy, Rita Fernandez, Stella Antuna, Linda Espinosa and Raymond De La Torre. She also leaves 14 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews whom she loved like her own.

A viewing will be held on Dec. 19 at 3pm at Mehl's Colonial Chapel. Funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick's Catholic Church on Dec. 20 at 10am. A private burial will be held at a later date.