Ruby Jeanette Foley died peacefully on December 11, 2013 in Lumby, British Columbia, just short of her 97th birthday. Ruby spent her life looking after others. She has earned her rest.
She was born in Brightview, Alberta, the second youngest of nine children of Olaf and Hilma Olson. Ruby was the last surviving child. She was predeceased by her siblings and her husband Percy Foley. Her family moved to B.C. in 1927 where Ruby attended school in Mission and Vancouver. She was perhaps most proud of her service in the RCAF during the last years of WW II. She served in both Canada and Great Britain. In 1954, Ruby married Percy Foley in Surrey BC. She worked for Sears for many years before moving to Seymour Arm in 1969 where she and Percy became active members of the community and developed lasting friendships. In those days, they had to get their water from Shuswap Lake, and electricity was provided by their own diesel generator. She ran a small gift shop and occasionally rented out small cabins. The Foley’s moved briefly to Vernon where Percy died of cancer in 1988. At the age of 73, Ruby moved back to her home in her beloved Seymour Arm and reopened her gift shop. She donated all profits from the store to the school children in the community. She then lived for several years in Salmon Arm where she was an active volunteer at Haney House. Finally, she moved back to Vernon where she lived at the Vernon Restholm for fourteen years. During her time there she was very active in Tai Chi until her health forced her to give it up. Her last week was spent at a care home in Lumby.
Right to the end of her life, Ruby was actively concerned with seniors’ issues. She was an amazing woman.
Ruby is survived by her Vernon family: her niece Doreen Millar (Barry), Stacy Fuhr (Mike), and Karla Fuhr; her niece Leslie Ostafew (Shon);and by many nieces and nephews in Canada and abroad.
At Ruby’s request, there will not be a service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Hospice House, 3506-27th Avenue, Vernon, B. C. V1T 1S4.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Pleasant Valley Funeral Home, Phone: 250 542 4333.
Condolences may be offered at
www.pleasantvalleyfh.com