Obituary
Ruth Gwendolyn Dickout
June 27, 1924 – August 28, 2022
It is with love and sadness that we announce the death of Ruth at the age of 98. For over 66 years, she was best friend and the loving wife of Les who predeceased her in 2010. She will be lovingly remembered by many who held a special place in her heart, her children, Wendee ( John) Cameron, Glen (Judy) Dickout, grandsons Geoff ( Shelly) Tripp, Mike Tripp, Korry ( Jacqueline) Dickout, , Kevin Dickout, and great grandchildren Julia, Keegan, Phoenix, Rizen, Gabriella and Jack.
Ruth was the only child of Grant and Clara Jones, born in Toronto and where she spent her school years at Blythewood Public and Lawrence Park Collegiate. Summers were enjoyed at the family cottage on Ahmic Lake. Following school graduation, the family moved to Ottawa as her father had accepted a position with the federal government. Ruth began working at the Bank of Commerce and shortly after became Head Teller, which her family in later years fondly referred to her as “the money roller”.
Ruth met Les while he was stationed at Rockcliff Airforce Base in Ottawa, they married in 1944 and so their love story began! They travelled west to Chilliwack, BC for their honeymoon to spend time with Les’ parents and four siblings. She was warmly welcomed into the Dickout clan and Ruth was so delighted to be embraced by such a loving family. Returning to Ottawa, soon after they began their family, Glen born in 1945 and Wendee born in 1949.
Having left the Air Force, various career opportunities moved them to Loydminister, Ottawa, Scarborough, Sudbury, Pefferlaw and finally Bracebridge. Wherever they resided, Ruth and Les were always enthusiastic supporters of their local church and community. Following their move to Bracebridge in 1982 for their retirement years, Ruth and Les were generous and active members of Bracebridge United Church and the community at large.
Ruth was a woman of great kindness, warmth, humour and creativity. Long after letter writing went out of fashion, Ruth would continue to send letters or notes to congratulate, to stay well or just to say hello to family, friends and acquaintances never missing a birthday or anniversary occasion.
Over the years she practiced almost every handicraft; sewing, embroidery, needlepoint, painting; family and friends often the recipients of her labours. When not creating something or playing the organ, the television would be front and centre as both Les and Ruth would cheer on their favourite Toronto teams as well as their favourite curler from NFLD. ,
She took great joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially watching her family grow and thrive. Ruth loved a good laugh…..the most recent “news” was welcomed and if the opportunity arose she was keen to play cards or whatever the suggested game. At Christmas, Easter or Thanksgiving gatherings there would always be a challenge for all ages that Ruth would have created or discovered; card puzzles to yoyo contests!
Family members are grateful for the love and support she received during her five years at Castle Peak Retirement Home prior to her move to The Pines Long Term Care. Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Phillips and the incredible staff at The Pines for their warmth, compassion and patience provided Mom. Your kindness was invaluable and we cannot thank you enough. During her last few years Ruth struggled with a number of health challenges. A sad final act for a life so full and well lived.
Ruth lived by…be kind, be thankful and have fun! Her goodbye was always “Toodaloo”!!
As per Ruth’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A family gathering will take place in the fall when colours abound, her favourite season.
For those who wish, and In lieu of flowers, donations in Ruth’s memory can be directed to South Muskoka Hospital Foundation. Online condolences can be made at www.reynoldsfuneral.com.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Ruth Gwendolyn Jones Dickout June 27 1924 August 28 2022 (age 98)..
Death notice for the town of: Bracebridge, Province: Ontario