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Ruby Cremaschi-Schwimmer Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Ruby Cremaschi-Schwimmer
Alexx Daye
June 7, 2025
Dearest Dr. Ruby Cremaschi-Schwimmer, Your memory lives on and on. The unconditional love you gave us all will be with us through eternity. There aren't enough words in any language to express the love and gratitude I have for you daily. My life was forever and will be forever changed by your guidance and love. Thank you and rest well Beloved Soul. Love, Alexx
Aimee Byerley
December 29, 2024
A loving compassionate woman. We had some wonderfully wild times together. She often called us Thelma and Louise. I met her when she was principal and I was the librarian at Muir school. I miss her greatly.
Sue Farmer
February 2, 2007
I've carried Dr. Ruby in my heart since I met her and even more vividly since reading of her dying.
What fun and how wise she was! I'm the library assistant at Kearny High Complex and somehow she adopted Jill Ames and me in our library office as a place to chat (about the oddest things) between duties as substitute principal.
We have a funny little folding chair with a back on it that one of our students found in the parking lot and she always sat there. Among other things, she shared her poem about her grandmother. I have a poster I've saved to illustrate that poem.... but she never quite got back....But her chair is there and I know she is ,too!
I am truly a nobody here, but am honored that she read some of the books by teens and others about writing that I saved for her. If any of you who are close noticed that she recently was wearing a little more color, it's cuz I suggested it. (Where did I get my nerve to suggest anything to a well known, accomplished doctor?)Dr. Ruby and Jill spoke of personal things but Dr. Ruby and I spoke of etherial (sp) things....I so wanted to share with her the rainbow I saw...grow into a rainbow and I wanted to show her my new great grandbaby...even though we were just acquaintances...
I seem to stop everyone I know and ask if he/she knew Dr. Ruby with a passion as though she were my best friend....
I so wanted to go to the House of Hospitality on January 4th.... just to watch the people she really did know.... because her glow would have been reflected there....
Godspeed to those missing this Lady!... I know she's with you daily...
Susanne Farmer, Library Assistant
Kearny High Complex Library
January 30, 2007
Dear Ruby,
You were so special. You were the only educator who worked with me after grade school. You had tons of other qualities that only you have. You made this world a better place.
Davie Olinger
Heather Reading-Maffioli
January 29, 2007
Like many students at Muir, I always felt special when "Cremaschi" talked to or spent time with me. She encouraged me to believe in myself and become a leader and the teacher I am today (even at the age of 8). I have thought of her often. Please accept by condolences.
Leda Olinger
January 29, 2007
Ruby's commitment to making a positive change, as well as her dynamic leadership have and will always stay with me! Her legacy is bountiful.
John Muir Student
Cindy Deutsch
January 15, 2007
I probably spent less time with Ruby then most but it was wonderful time! I met Ruby over 20 years ago. Sidney Schwimmer was my dad's cousin. We only saw each other infrequently. We talked on and off over the years. I never forgot her! Whenever we talked, there was always a welcoming voice at the other end. It was only in the last few years that we started spending time together. We were kind of related(my grandmother was a Schwimmer) but it wasn't the blood that connected us, it was our hearts! We both worked with adolescents . I guess that was one of our bonds. We had long conversations. Some of the things we did were thrift store shopping, we took 2 spiritual classes together, we went to see a wonderful concert(an Ethiopian Jewish singer named Joshua Nelson), she went with me to the most recent Holocaust Memorial, we went to Yom Kippur Services, we saw the movie, "The Queen," and some other activities. She encouraged me to meet relatives I did not know. The last time I saw Ruby was the 5th night of Hanukkah. I watched the joy on her little niece's face when she opened Ruby's gift. It lit the little girl up! I related to that feeling from Ruby. I will miss her dearly but will never forget the great energy this woman had. I think about Ruby often and I'm sure this will never cease.
Patricia Miyahara
January 8, 2007
I was privileged to be one of Ruby's special "ladybug" friends for the past 36 years, and what a presence she was in my life! She opened her home and her life to me, sharing tips and trips, sharing her heart and soul. On one level, I knew she was an extraordinary woman, with many accomplishments and accolades to her credit; but when we were just spending ladybug time together she was just Ruby...unassuming, earthy, sometimes needy, but usually she was the one who gave the support; she had a fantastic wit and a booming laugh; she and I had the special bond of being lovers of books. Ruby made us laugh and cry, she inspired and challenged. Her death makes a huge hole in my life; how can you replace a friend who was with you for 36 years? The "ladybugs" will never be the same...and neither will I.
Trisha Miyahara
Carol Rothenberg
January 8, 2007
Ruby was one of the most powerful and gentle souls I have ever known. Powerful because she could accomplish anything she set her mind to. Gentle because she moved through life with such grace, and cared deeply about everyone who was fortunate enough to spend part of that journey with her. She taught me so much about life and how to live it. Ruby was an inspiring leader to work for, and so much more. She will always be in my heart...
Jan Hintzman
January 7, 2007
“dear, dear Ruby
Ruby embraced the world………its joys and its sorrows
She was heart….
soul…….
goodness……
caring…..
loving…..
longing……
seeking peace in the world.
She was generous……
inclusive…
determined……..
hard-working…..
inspirational.
She was laughter……she was tears.
Ruby was a spark and a beacon for us all.
Her spirit will live on in our lives and deeds.
We are all more for having known her.
As her children challenged, Ruby left many shoes for us to fill.”
Connie Thomas
January 6, 2007
Even though I was the school librarian/media specialist at Muir Alternative for only one year, I remember Ruby well, both as my Principal and also as my friend. Her smile lit up every room she entered. My deepest condolences to her family.
MICHELLE PINUELAS
January 4, 2007
MAY U REST IN PIECE Dr. Ruby Cremaschi-Schwimmer..U WERE A GREAT PRINICIPAL AT MARK TWAIN SENIOR JR HIGH SCHOOL..FROM UR STUDENT MICHELLE PINUELAS
Lou Padula
January 4, 2007
Ruby was a Leader and not a boss that I loved working for. She will be loved by all those who had the pleasure to meet and interact with her.
God will surely have great conversations with this loving woman.
Louis Cornelio
January 4, 2007
Among the many things Ruby was, she was this - Unforgettable!!
20 years have passed since I was lucky enough to work with her at Lincoln Prep and I still think of her often. She was a great principal and a warm and wonderful person — the best principal I ever worked for. She inspired both deep respect and deep affection in all of us. She will be missed, but not forgotten. God bless!
Arika "McDarby" McGlothlen
January 4, 2007
Dear Cremashi family,
Ruby is one person I have- and will- remember for the rest of my life. She touched lives so profoundly. To put it as simply as possible: She INSPIRED. In her role as an educator, this so very important.
When I was a student at Muir Alternative, I had some difficulties...as did many other students there. She was truly my role model pushing for me to become my best. I am now a 4th grade teacher, and I strive to have the same effect on students as she had on me. I feel so fortunate to have had Ruby touch my life in my early educational years. She truly paid it forward.
Colleen Clasby
January 4, 2007
Dr. Cremaschi, touched my life as well as my entire family's even though it was in 1980, I was a student at Muir for 1 year and still 27 years later I remember Dr. Cremaschi and her JOY , my family often speaks of her and we all extend our condolences in this sad time for you as well as a very large group of people she touched.
Carl, Colleen Hernandez
January 4, 2007
Dear April, John and Bonnie, So sorry to hear of your Moms passing. Can still see you in Mr. Bakers class room. And Wayne in the Cub Scouts. The whole Hernandez family sends you our thoughts and prayers. God Bless all of you. Carl, Colleen, Chuck, David and Mike Hernandez
Jo Wilcox
January 4, 2007
I took care of Linda Case' mother in law one day while Linda went to visit Ruby and Linda would tell me all about her visit with Ruby when she got back home.
Linda took me to meet Ruby one day at a testimony gathering. I was pleased to meet her.
Willie & Rose Jones
January 4, 2007
So sorry about your loss. Our sister will be truly missed
Cassandra Wadkins
January 4, 2007
Dear Ruby,
You are such an inspiration to so many. Your dancing spirit will continue to live within us.
Love forever,
Cassandra
Barry Bernstein
January 4, 2007
Dr.Cremaschi, (Ruby), was a very special person. An enlightened educator with high expectations for her students, staff, and the community. Her positive approach to eduation and life in general affected everyone around her. She was one of a kind, with her unique background providing her with abilities to understand and help others. I was saddened to hear of her passing.
Karlan and Doug Strong
January 4, 2007
Ruby
The room brightened
as she entered the door,
creative in spirit,
a joyful soul.
Her voice resounded,
she broadened our lives,
earthy and honest,
she spoke from her heart.
Kay Olinger
January 4, 2007
Ruby was my friend in a group of friends who call themselves “the ladybugs”. We have shared many happy times together and all of our lives are richer because of Ruby.
Marjory Bidlack
January 3, 2007
Today was saddened when I learned from a Wilson Jr. H.S. teacher of the loss of one of our dear school friends, Ruby. While serving as the Principal's secretary at Wilson I became very impressed with her knowledge and way in which she treated the students who she served. Staff members came to enjoy her friendship, happiness and bright outlook to the future. Ruby will be greatly missed by those who were fortunate in knowing her.
Robert Scott (Muir '79)
January 3, 2007
As part of the interview commitee that chose Cremaschi for the principal position at John Muir (while a student) as well as someone who got to work with her during her trnure at Twain, I was amazed to see that her passion for education never seemed to wane. My heart goes out to all who find their lives diminished over this loss and encourage all to find a way to share what made Cremaschi special to you, with as many others as possible.
SHELLEY DOVE; NEE JAMES
January 3, 2007
DR.RUBY WAS THE PRINCIPLE AT MUIR AFTER I GRADUATED BUT MY MOM, JOANIE, WAS STILL TEACHING THERE. BOY COULD DR. RUBY LIGHT UP A ROOM WITH HER SMILE AND KIND WORDS WHEN I WOULD VISIT.
I'M SO SORRY TO THE FRIENDS AND FAMILY FOR YOUR GREAT LOSS. THIS WILL BE SUCH A HARD TIME AND IT SEEMS TO BE HAPPENING FAR TO MUCH LATELY TO SO MANY GOOD PEOPLE.
ALTHOUGH THE PAIN WILL BE DEEP, MAY IT TURN INTO LOVING MEMORIES OF A GREAT, GREAT LADY WHO MADE A DIFFERENCE IN SO MANY LIVES. THE LIVES OF THE CHILDREN SHE TOUCHED WILL BE BETTER PEOPLE BECAUSE OF IT. I WISH I COULD SAY SOMETHING TO EASE YOUR SUFFERING BUT I WILL JUST FINISH WITH " MAY THE PAIN FADE AND LET THE LOVE AND GOOD MEMORIES FLOW IN FOREVER." GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU FOR LETTING US SHARE OUR FEELINGS WITH YOUR FAMILY.
Linda Burpeau
January 3, 2007
I was Ruby’s secretary at Mark Twain Jr/Sr High for 2 years, but worked for “Dr. C” during several years prior at Twain. With Ruby’s motivation, I joined the Twain Book Club and re-discovered the joy of reading. I remember fondly the book review group meetings at Andiamos Italian Food in Tierra Santa where she thrived on the energy of group discussions of each book reviewed. By encouraging teachers and staff to read and digest each specially chosen book, she knew the knowledge, energy and content of each review would be transmitted to her precious students. Ruby was always generous, encouraging, enthusiastic, whimsical, creative, and full of life. Her laugh was contagious. She loved deeply, lived richly, cared profoundly for others regardless of age, ethnicity, class, culture, gender or religion. When staff members resisted change, she had them read “Who Moved My Cheese”. She once played and sang along to “I hope you dance” during a staff meeting. Ruby knew how to dance in life, and I picture her dancing now. I hope we all "still feel small when we stand beside the ocean"….. Love yah Ruby. It has been a pleasure and an honor to work with you. Bonnie and Darcy, she glowed whenever you came to visit at Twain. To all her family, I wish God’s blessings upon you!
Linda Burpeau
Sally Wallace Browning
January 3, 2007
Dear April, Wayne, and Bonnie,
I am so saddened to hear of your Mom's passing.She was so incredibly amazing and fun.Her spirit is evidenced in you three and in the many other people whose lives she touched. Charlotte called to let me know and she caught me up a little on your lives. My sadness is mixed with joy in knowing that you are all well and in remembering what a wonderful mother you had been blessed with. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I miss you all.
Larene Sullivan, Retired Principal, Serra Highschool
January 3, 2007
I participated with Ruby in the Rt to Read program as a principal. I roomed with her at several conferences, and she was such fun. She was a wonderful lady full of love and generosity for people and will be greatly missed.
My sympathy to the family.
Sonya Grant Zindel
January 3, 2007
Dear April, Wayne, and Bonnie - What a big soul she was! I loved her laugh - warm, inclusive, and full of enjoyment at the general silliness of life. I got to spend a fair amount of time with her at April and Mike's wedding and that was such a pleasure. I am so sorry I can't be at the service, but my thoughts and good wishes will be there instead.
Lorraine Castro
January 3, 2007
Magnificently angelic best describes Ruby touching our lives. She created a safe environment at Montgomery Middle School (1984-86). A difference was made by bringing out the best in her staff which contributed a great deal to our Linda Vista learning community. Ruby’s invaluable smile supported us through trial and tribulations, making molehills out of mountains. Though it has been 20 years since she left Montgomery, Ruby continues to hold a very special place in the hearts of all she mentored.
Joan Tally
January 3, 2007
Wayne, April and Bonnie,
I was so surprised and shocked to read about your mother in the paper this morning. She was such a wonderful person and a guiding light to everyone who happened to come in contact with her. She will be greatly missed.
Even though we lost contact through the years, I have thought about all of you so often and have wondered where life has taken the three of you. All three of you, like your mother, have so much to offer to this world.
Wayne, do you remember cub scouts at our house? And Palmer Way Elementary School? The teachers there all talked about the three of you often. What an impression you and your mother left.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Wendell Bass
January 3, 2007
Wayne, Bonnie and April
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of you mother. Her and I were very close during our times at Lincoln Prep. She was my mentor, role model and dear friend. She taught me so much about how to be a great Principal. She modeled it every single day. It was amazing watching her lead the transformation of a school and its community. She was one of the most creative persons that I have ever known. What stands out the most is the unconditional love and high expectations that she had for every child, parent, staff member and community member. She was dearly loved by all. She had such a tremendous sense of humor, despite the tough times we faced in transforming Lincoln. Her laughter would bring the house down. My first official and only vice-principalship was under her leadership. She loved you all so much and she was always so proud of each of you. It was a great joy knowing her and it is a great joy knowing you all. I look forward to seeing you all at the service. May God continue to order and bless your footsteps.
Wendell Bass
(Former Principal and Vice-Principal of Lincoln High School)
Amanda
January 3, 2007
My condolences to Cremaschi's loved ones. She was a caring mentor to many students. I think of her often.
Diane Driver
January 3, 2007
Ruby's warmth and goodness will be missed by her long-time women friends, "the ladybugs," and, her spirit will be with us in March at Asilomar and after. To Bonnie, April, Wayne, and Ruby's family, my thoughts are with you. Thanks for allowing us to share her!
Marion Gapp
January 3, 2007
Bonnie, Wayne, April - remember the good times - Don, Mike and I send you our best -
Mary Rowe
January 3, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the family,April,Bonnie,and Wayne
Please read Proverbs 31, and be comforted and know that your mother was a virtuious woman in own right. May God bless and keep you during this time of bereavment.
Julia & Dan McGinnis
January 3, 2007
Dear April, Wayne, Bonnie and Family:
We send you our deepest condolences at the loss of your mom. What a super person. We were so priviledged to know her and will miss her so mujch. We are so thankful that you were all togethr over the holidays. Ruby was very proud of all of you and your accomplishments and so happy to be with you and her grandkids.
We know from our own experiience that it is devastiating to lose a parent so suddenly. It is also our experience that time will heal these feelings and that memories of your mother will stay with you always. Her influence will always be there for you to call on and to help you for the rest of your lives.
As you know I was one of the Ladybugs and she was a vibrant part of our group. We had so many great times together - sharing, loving, laughing, crying and giving. She will be missed by all of the Ladybugs so deeply. She was also my boss at Muir Alternative School and she was a wonderful person to work for. She was an amazing influence on so many who came in contact with her through her work and volunteer projects.
We send you our love,
Julia and Dan McGinnis
Ladybugs, Seattle Washingon, circa 1995. l-r: Goldie, Julie, Diane, Jan, Ruby, Kay, Trish
January 3, 2007
Aimee Byerley
January 3, 2007
Dear Ruby,
I will always remember our last two trips together to Palm Springs and Virginia Beach. Farewell to a good and trusted friend.You will always be present in my heart.
Larry and Edna Mikulanis
January 3, 2007
Ruby was a strong humanitarian during a time period in the district that was far from her style. She will be missed
Louise Anderson
January 3, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
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