Fred H. Ruth

We are here today to honor retired Firefighter Fred Ruth. Also known as Babe to his family and friends. He was a native born Californian. Born October 29, 1928 and raised in Los Angeles. After graduating from high school he joined the Army's 40th division National Guard. In October 1950 they were activated to regular Army and were sent to Japan and Korea. The Korean war had begun then. He was a Staff Sergeant in the Military police. He spent time in both countries. He returned home in October 1952. He decided the Fire Department was what he wanted as his career. In June 1953 he joined Los Angeles City Fire Department where he spent the next 30 years. He became an Engineer and chose to remain at that rank because he really enjoyed that.

During those 30 years he made many life long friends. They hunted, fished, rode dirt bikes and Dune buggies together. Sometimes including their sons.

He leaves behind his wife of 66 years, Barbara. Also his daughter Lynne, son Jim who also is a retired Fire Captain, grandson Jon who is a current Firefighter/Paramedic, another grandson Scott and granddaughter Kimi. He also leaves his sister Doris Stephens and many nieces and nephews.

His family always came first but the Fire Department and his friends there were special too. He was a Christian and Patriotic man.

He was someone who could do anything and everything and passed those skills on to his son Jim.

He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. There will always be the memories though. He was very proud of his children's successes.