Ruth Helene Catherine Bieman Bailey

I began with this passage today, because Ruth lived a good life. No doubt she faced some hardships... but she was stoic. Ruth Bailey was kind and loving and loyal; she didn't waste her time on earth; she found joy in the simple moments of her days and she leaves you all with a heart more complete because you knew her.

Welcome, my name is Brianne Jourdin and I am honored to be your Celebrant today as we reflect upon a great life lived. We join our hearts together to support Ruth's family and all of you who loved her, worried about her and miss her. You all have played an integral part in Ruth's life… and she…… brought you laughter, light and was a shining example of a life well lived.

Ruth's imprint on this earth will forever be imbedded into our souls allowing us to embrace and cherish the memories with love and reverence.

On behalf of the family, thank you all for coming together; it is an important day when we stop to honor a life lived among us. Ruth lived her life with a vibrant personality and she no doubt, taught you about living life to its richest joy. You all come together, Ruth's family and her friends. You do so with love in your hearts but also with sadness engulfing that love. For some of you, your heart aches because an integral part of your life will no longer be present; for the rest, you grieve because someone you care about is hurting.

Your presence serves as a promise to be there when the grief becomes too much; a promise to give a shoulder to lean on, or to stand in silence when there are no words to speak.

Although Ruth lived a good life and we should be grateful for the time we had; it is nevertheless heartbreaking to lose someone we love in the physical world.

I ask you now, to take a brief silent moment to invite Ruth's spirit to be with us here today as we honor her life in story and song.

A blessing as we begin….

Archangel Azrael - pure and trustworthy being of God's light. Healer of the bereaved. We ask you to be with us today, and in the days to come as we walk this journey of sadness. Ruth was very dear to us who loved her and needed her in our lives and as we move to understand life without her in it, we ask that you protect our hearts from being overwhelmed. Let us feel Ruth's presence, her glorious spirit and her magnificent charisma deep in our souls.

On September 29, 1923, Ruth Bieman, the oldest child of Irvin and Annie Bieman, was born at home in the stone farmhouse owned by her parents. One story that she liked to tell of that time, was one told to her by her hardworking parents; who were in the field and looked up to see what they believed were blackbirds attacking their little Ruth in the carriage. They went running, and came to be relieved to find that it was just her little feet adorned with black stockings, kicking gleefully in the summer day!

Another story from that time, a time when fun wasn't found on any electronic device; Ruth was at a family members mill, playing in a sawdust pile with her cousin; when suddenly a snake comes slithering out of the middle of it. The girls scattered and were saved by a heroic farm dog who shook the snake to death.

By the 1930's, the family had grown and tough times forced her parents to leave the farm and move to Waterloo in search of any work just to put food on the table.

In 1938 rumblings of war had begun and the beginnings of an economic recovery had started. Ruth, feeling maternal, as the oldest child, quit school after grade 8 to get a job and help out with the needs of her parents and siblings.

One of her jobs was a B.F. Goodrich, where she was picked to ride the company float in the Labour Day Parade. Working hard and helping her family, Ruth was able to save a little money and eventually bought herself her first car... a 1923 Ford with a Rumble seat. She always spoke proudly of that purchase. 

In 1945 the war was over and Ruth left home to share an apartment with 3 other girls. One of the girls, Pauline Maylo, was going with a fellow named Bill Turcotte, whose cousin Bud Bailey, who had just back from the war, was in Kitchener looking for work. While at a party, Bill introduced Bud to Ruth and the rest is history.

They were married in May, 1948 and in December, 1949 a son Bruce was born.

In about 1952 the promise of lots of jobs in California was the lure they needed to pull up stakes and try their luck on the sunny west coast. The rumors proved to be unfounded and after a period of time they decided to return home and work out a life again back in Canada.

Bud got a job in Michigan and came home on weekends while Ruth took whatever work she could get locally. Eventually, both were able to find local jobs , Bud at Uniroyal and Ruth at Dare Foods, Jacks Snack, which is Frito Lay today and even later in life she worked a couple of years at Arrow shirts.

In 1966 they bought their first and only home in Bridgeport. In 1972, they celebrated the marriage of Bruce to Marnie McGinnis and again, proudly celebrated with the births of their 2 granddaughters, Andrea in 1977 and Kerilyn in 1985.

They had 28 wonderful years together in Bridgeport until Bud passed in 1994.

Ruth, being the independent lady that she was, stayed there for another 23 years.

She was grateful to have some adventures visiting Florida, the East Coast and often Ottawa to visit Bruce, Marnie and the girls.

In her community, she had a significant role in the Women's Institute Bridgeport Chapter, where she would help organize Teas, Bazaars, Remembrance Day events and much more.

Ruth always kept her mind alert with hobbies like crochet, puzzles, crosswords and word finds. She worked so hard keeping her mind fresh so she could keep driving till the grand age of 81.

Ruth was a gracious host, always with beer in the fridge in case her visitors wanted one and she was just as gracious as a guest when she enjoyed the laughter of her family and the rumble of the dogs running wild while she sipped just one, Baileys and milk.

I would like to invite you now to bring the memories you have of Ruth and hold them in your heart as we listen to an uplifting song by her favorite artist, Charlie Pride. Take this moment to embrace the person next to you with a hug, a handshake or a smile... let this time be a reminder to take time to breathe and enjoy the simple moments of your days

As we get older, we all need a little help and it was her dear friends and neighbors in the Bridgeport area (you know who you are) that certainly contributed to her remaining independent for so long.

In February of this year when time and the inability to cope in her home any longer forced her to make the decision to take up residence at a retirement home, namely Lanark Place, where she adapted quite well to her new surroundings. Unfortunately she was unable to enjoy her new home for long.

Friendship isn't always easily described. The Eskimos, they say, have a hundred different words for snow. Unfortunately, the English language isn't quite as innovative, though it has vast opportunities to differentiate meaning. Certainly, Love is one of those opportunities. And so, too, is Friendship.

Instead of different words, however, we're stuck with simple adjectives. Close friend. Best friend. Childhood friend. Intimate friend. Trusted friend. Beloved friend. But whether you use adjectives or different words, few could deny the nearly infinite meaning in such a simple word.

Friends are special people. We can't pick our family, but our friends can be as diverse and infinite as the adjectives we choose. Our friends, in a very real sense, reflect the choices we make in life.

"Friendship means understanding, not agreement. It means forgiveness not forgetting.

It means memories last even if contact is lost."

Ruth knew the love of a wonderful man who shared his life with her. They worked in unison and created a great life as friends, companions and partners in everything. They enjoyed many years of hard work, great rewards and much laughter. They tackled the ups and downs of life hand in hand before Bud passed and she could have only survived and thrived as an independent woman by the love and support of her family and friends.

Here I would like to dedicate a reading to all of you who continually walked beside Ruth on her journey.

Thank you for being there for me when I needed someone.

My failing hopes to bolster and my secret fears to share.

Thank you for being so good to me when it was hard to know the wisest course to follow,

what to do and where to go.

Thank you for giving me confidence when I needed a helping hand.

Speaking the word that led me through the course of the day.

Thank you for all you did and said to ease the weight for me.

Never intruding but always there in the background, helping quietly.

Thank you not only for sympathy in the times of grief and stress -

but for all you have meant to me in terms of happiness.

From the condolence messages on the funeral home website, I can see that Ruth touched many lives. Marlene writes - I will always remember your friendly smile, sense of humour and kindness. You will always be Aunt Ruth to me and will always be remembered with love.

A message from Deb, Cam, Stephanie, Emily and Megan reads..... One of the sweetest people I've ever known, always ready with a smile and a hearty laugh ... and some baked goods of course! You were loved by so many, will be missed by everyone. With love and heartfelt condolences.

A message from Sharon says - Ruth was small but mighty. She always had a big welcoming heart and smile whenever we came over to catch up with all the family stuff and talked about old times of when we lived next door. She will be dearly missed.

Other messages boast words like, Classy, Lovely and fond memories!

I would now like to share a letter that was sent from her nephew out west.

Ruth was a woman of honesty, integrity and strength. If you needed help and she was able, she would gladly be there. She had a great life filled with the love of family; she thought the world of Marnie and the life Bruce and her had created, complete with amazing grandchildren and many adventures to hold as precious memories.

She leaves behind some recipes, some OCD-type habits and much love. Her spirit was always young at heart and it is my hope that it lives on in each of you. As you remember her, let your own spirit be lifted and invigorated.

The Bailey family would like to thank everyone for your warm thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Please know that Ruth Bailey had a life well lived.

To all of you who knew and loved Ruth; Let her memory inspire kind words, generous actions and the insight to live life with excitement. You will not see or touch her in the physical world any longer; but allow your hearts to be open and allow her soul to fill you with light; invite her to wrap her arms around you when you are sad and blanket you with her love when you need to feel safe. Your lives have been blessed for having known her and she will never be forgotten.

A woman's job is never done... even now; her legacy is carried in your hearts and your memories and you will feel her in the moments of your days.

Following our service today you are invited to join the family in a reception here in the funeral home. Please take this time to share your memories with each other, and reconnect with people you haven't seen in some time. At 130, we will be travelling in procession to Memory Gardens where we will accompany Ruth to her final resting place, and to reunite her with her dear husband Bud in a short graveside committal.

I bring our service to a close with these words.

May the God of Peace, who brought from the dead our Lord Jesus, equip you with everything good, that you may do his will. May the peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the love of God. Now may the Father grant you strength, through his spirit to the depths of your inner being, that Christ may dwell in your hearts in faith, and that you may be rooted and grounded in love.

"The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace."

May the truth that sets us free

And the hope that never dies

And the love that casts out fear

Be with us now

Until dayspring breaks

And the shadows flee away.

We have been blessed by life; Amen

Who you have become, is a result of all of the experiences of your life, including your connection to Ruth - the gifts she gave to you will forever be part of your soul. The gifts of strength, kindness and free spiritedness. Our gathering today is in thanksgiving, not regret, for Ruth's life was full while she was among us.

In honor of Ruth and Bud's commitment to one another I will now recite this final reading to commit their Spirits to everlasting life together:

TOGETHER AGAIN

A reunion occurred in heaven

Of the sweetest and most joyful kind

As Ruth’s spirit moved beyond this earth

Released from her mortal life

And what a reunion it must have been!

A joy beyond our conceiving

When Ruth met Bud in heaven again

Ending her dignified grieving

And we are certain Ruth is holding Bud's hand

While she cherishes each moment by his side

And they’re experiencing the joy of being together again

Catching up on the time they were denied

We are confident they are also looking over us

Hoping this happiness will lessen our pain

As we contemplate the joy that they finally feel

Now that they are together again

And though we miss them terribly

And we long for them with deepest grief

We are reminded that love is more powerful than death

And this knowledge gives us comfort and peace

So although we’ll miss our Ruth profoundly

Our grief is somewhat lessened

For we are comforted knowing that she led a good life

And she and Bud are now together again.

We leave the memory of our beloved Ruth in peace. With enduring love and respect we wish her farewell. May you all find richness and example in your many memories of Ruth. May you find strength and support in your connection for one another and may you find peace in your hearts.

I fall asleep in the full and certain hope That my slumber shall not be broken; And that, though I be all-forgetting, Yet shall I not be all-forgotten, But continue that life in the thoughts and deeds Of those I have loved.

Ruth Bailey has safely crossed the barrier and is now free to experience another reality, along with all the joys which await there. For us, however, it is important to say this final farewell as we commit Ruth's physical form to its natural end.

Ruth, we wish you well and thank you for being a part of our lives. We honor your life and we trust you will find ever-lasting peace. We will not forget you. Go well.

We will close our time together with the 23rd Psalm - the psalm of comfort that has been read through the ages to bring solace to those whose hearts are broken. Allow this to be our final prayer; our whisper to heaven and our wish for a gentle journey for Ruth. Then, I invite you to take your time saying your own personal goodbyes one last time; perhaps you would like to place a hand on Ruth's casket or lay a flower as tribute to your love for her.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:

he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul:

he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil:

for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:

thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

We have been remembering with love and gratitude a life that touched us all. I encourage you to help, support and love those who grieve most. Allow them to cry; to hurt; to smile and to remember. Grief works through our systems in its own time. Remember to appreciate each day and to live it to the full in honor of Ruth Bailey. We often take life for granted and yet it is the greatest gift we have.

We have let Ruth go. Having completed this final task, may we go forth with a measure of peace, so that we may live out our own lives with renewed memory and with deepened love for the people in our lives.

* * * * * * * * * *

Passed away at Grand River Hospital on Wednesday, April 26, 2017, in her 94th year. Beloved wife of the late Ralph “Bud” Bailey (1994). Dear mother of Bruce Bailey and his wife Marnie of Kitchener. Loved grandmother of Andrea (Ian Smith) and Kerilyn Bailey (Mike Romagnoli) of Kitchener. Dear sister of Irene Searles, Janet Lasso, and sister-in-law of Joan Janosik. Predeceased by her parents Irvin and Annie Bieman and by her siblings Ken Bieman (Pauline), Ross Bieman (Dorothy), Lorne Bieman (Elaine), Stan Bieman (Carol), Joyce LaPointe (Gilles), and brothers-in-law Al Schill and Ken Lasso. Ruth was a long-time resident of the Bridgeport area and a proud member of the Bridgeport Women’s Institute. Most recently, Ruth was residing at Lanark Heights Retirement Home. Ruth’s family will receive relatives and friends at Westmount Memorial Celebration Centre, 1001 Ottawa St. S., Kitchener, (519-743-8900) on Tuesday, May 2, 2017 from 7 – 9 pm. Visitation will continue at the funeral home on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 from 10:30 – 11:15 am, where the funeral service will be held in the chapel at 11:30 am. Interment Memory Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be appreciated to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 2 – 1373 Victoria St. N., Kitchener, ON N2B 3R6, or to St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation, 911 Queen’s Blvd., Kitchener, ON N2M 1B2. Online condolences at www.westmountfuneralchapel.com