Ruth Sirianni, My Grandmother

Though I didn't see her often, I knew she was always there.  And perhaps that's why sometimes it doesn't sink in that she's gone.

Right from the beginning she was there, while my mom was in labor.  And I made them wait--it was twenty-one hours before I made my arrival (as mom never lets me forget!).  And, my mom said, Grandma was in the waiting room most of the time.  Waiting on me, the eighth and last of her grandchildren.

Even then she was "old."  My father, Michael, was her youngest child, and I was his youngest child.  I suppose that I'm lucky that I did get to know her and she was here another 23 years.  It's not enough.

I know I'll truly know she's gone when I don't get one of her cards.  She sent one for every holiday.  And notes and letters in between.  I've saved them in a binder that my mom started for me when I was little.  She sent family pictures, updates, newsletters, genealogy and a binder filled with California history that she loved.  It seems to me like she was the family historian and she had a great wealth of knowledge she shared and answered all my questions.  Perhaps she missed her calling as a teacher.

Over the years as I grew up I learned more and more how interesting and loving she was.  She always wanted to know "my news" and took an interest in everything I told her.

I'll be graduating in May from Sonoma State University with a degree in statistics.  She encouraged me all through school, saying "an education is so important and something no one can take away from you."  So, in May I'll look at the audience and see her face, nodding, smiling, waving, and proud.  And when the speaker talks of going into the future, as they always do, I'll take her with me. 

--Giancarlo

She was the greatest woman I have ever know; a mother to all who knew her,if there is a heaven, then she will surly be there with the father!
                                  Jimy Starshadow II,wacasa wakan

Ruth was such a family person.  She always organized gatherings which brought everyone together.  Her Clintsman Capers were such a great way to keep in touch and strengthen the family bonds.  Neilla, Margaret,our hearts go out to you.
Love - from Patty & all the Cole "children"

Ruth always asked me, "how are you?' How are your kids?" Is your husband ok, too? Always about other people. Unselfish woman. Now she has her time, painless, and beautiful. 

Thank you, Ruth, for always listening.

Ruth was my mothers cousin.  Ruth lived in Southern CA and we lived in Palo Alto, CA, so we didn't get together that often.  I remember staying with Ruth and her family when they lived in Encino, CA; it was our first trip to Disneyland in the late 50's.  What fun we had! 
I will especially remember the Clintsman Caper's!  Aunt Ruth brought family members from near and far together with her wonderful newsletter.
Thank you Aunt Ruth, we have many fond memories of you. 
With love to you and your family,
The Redstrom/Osmundson/Hopson families

OBITUARY

Ruth Marie Clintsman Sirianni

13 January, 1919 – 25 January, 2012

Eternal Valley Memorial Park & Mortuary

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