Widow of 2576 Commodore W.P. Hayes, Commandant of RMC from 1967 – 1970, died in Victoria, BC – 8 August 2010
HAYES, Mary Ruth (nee Ironside) Ruth passed away peacefully in her sleep 8 August, 2010 at the age of 91 in Victoria, BC. Predeceased by her loving husband, Commodore William Prine Hayes, in August 2009 and her younger brother, Jim. Survived by her children, Jane (Lou) Altobelli of Georgetown, ON; Fred (Cheryl) Hayes of Victoria, BC; Jim (Anne) Hayes of Sooke, BC; grandchildren, Nick Altobelli, Dan Altobelli, Kelly Vick, Allison Wright, Alexandra Hayes, Lydia Hayes and great granddaughter Lily Vick. Ruth was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, 5 June 1919. She was raised in Swift Current, Saskatchewan. She received a BSc from the University of Manitoba. She knew Bill from her childhood on and when he stepped off the train on her 21st birthday on a home visit during the war she knew she would marry him. Ruth travelled with him throughout his naval career to both coasts, Ottawa, Kingston, Toronto, England and Rhode Island. They retired in Mahone Bay, NS in 1974 where they cultivated some land and many friends. Ruth was a loving mother and a marvellous and devoted naval wife. She enjoyed entertaining, travelling and getting visits from her kids and grandchildren. Ruth loved her husband dearly. She epitomized grace. The family would like to thank the caregivers at Glenwarren Lodge for all their efforts in making our mother’s stay there comfortable. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada would be appreciated. A memorial service was held 23 August 2010 at Sands Funeral Chapel, 317 Goldstream Ave, Colwood, BC. Victoria Times-Colonist obituaries
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