Ruby Irene Olson

Ruby was born on November 17, 1936, in Kincaid, Saskatchewan, to Alfred and Andora Kristianson. She was the fifth of six children and was considered the baby of the family until her younger brother arrived ten years later.

Ruby spent her early childhood in the village of Bromhead before her family moved to Estevan, Saskatchewan. As a little girl, she loved playing with dolls alongside her sisters and was known for dressing up kittens and proudly pushing them around in doll carriages. She also loved babysitting whenever she had the opportunity.

One of the highlights of her childhood was attending Horse Creek Bible Camp, where she formed friendships that remained meaningful throughout her life and where her faith continued to grow.

After graduating from high school, Ruby moved to Saskatoon, where she worked for the Government of Saskatchewan in the Employment Office. She also became an active member of the Church of Christ. The church had a vibrant young adults group that spent time together in Bible studies, skating parties, and countless social gatherings. It was there that she met the love of her life, Roger.

Ruby and Roger were married on August 31, 1957 in Toronto. Their journey together took them to Montreal, back to Toronto, and finally to Winnipeg, where they settled in 1967 and built the home they would lovingly share for many years.

Ruby’s greatest dream was simply to be a wife and mother. She adored babies and children, and together she and Roger were blessed with four children: James Brent, born in 1959; Roger Wayne, born in 1960; Andrea Ruth, born in 1963; and Jon Mark, born in 1966.

While raising her family, Ruby devoted herself not only to her own children but also to many others. She volunteered with children with disabilities and spent countless hours helping at her children’s schools. Every one of our friends knew Mom, and many loved her like a second mother.

Her home was the gathering place for the neighborhood children. There were backyard baseball games, football, tennis, skipping, homemade carnivals, and endless laughter. And no matter how many children showed up at the door, there were always homemade cookies and Kool-Aid waiting after an afternoon of play.

Once her own children were grown, Ruby began working in the children’s department at Eaton’s downtown. Sewing had always been one of her greatest passions. She was an exceptionally talented seamstress, making beautiful clothes for her own children and later for her grandchildren. During her years at Eaton’s, she turned that gift into a small business called Little Gems by Ruby, where she lovingly handcrafted children’s clothing.

Family was always at the center of Ruby’s life. After Roger retired, they enjoyed traveling together, spending many winters in Texas visiting her sister Ellen and exploring countless places throughout Canada and the United States. Those adventures became some of their happiest memories together.

Even in her later years, Mom remained active and engaged. She faithfully attended her daily exercise classes, loved playing games and visiting with friends at Brightwater Senior Living, and continued to enjoy the fellowship of those around her.

Most importantly, Ruby’s faith remained the foundation of her life. She attended the Church of Christ throughout her life, teaching Sunday school, participating in Bible studies, and serving wherever she was needed. She loved her church family deeply, and they loved her in return.

Ruby lived a quiet life of kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. She didn’t seek recognition; she simply loved people well. Her legacy is found not only in the family she cherished, but also in the countless lives she touched through simple acts of love, hospitality, and service.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Roger, along with many of her dear relatives.

She leaves behind her children: Brent (Lisa) Olson, Wayne (Janet) Olson, Andrea (Jake) Wiebe, and Mark (Monica) Olson; her grandchildren: Stephen Fleming, Candace (Josh) Tuzyk, Kevin (Cailey) Fleming, Abby (Jaron) Friesen, Erika (Justin) Geisheimer, Tanis Wiebe, Eric Wiebe, Adam Wiebe, and Tyler Olson; and her cherished great-grandchildren: John Tuzyk, Natalie Tuzyk, Elyse Friesen, Leila Friesen, Gabriel Friesen, Silas Friesen, and Charlie Geisheimer.

She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters, many nieces and nephews, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

Mom, thank you for showing us what a life of faith, humility, kindness, and unconditional love looks like. We will miss your gentle spirit more than words can express, but we rejoice knowing that you are finally home with Dad, reunited with those you loved, and forever in the presence of your Lord and Saviour.

Until we meet again, we love you.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at Central Church of Christ, 170 St Mary's Rd.