Ruth Viola Barber Himelstein

Ruth was born in Norwich, CT on Oct. 6, 1924 to the late Burton and Ruth (Murray) Barber.

She graduated from Norwich Free Academy and obtained her degree in travel and tourism from Florida Atlantic University in 1985.

On December 2, 1978 she was married in Las Vegas NV to her husband Dr. Samuel Himelstein who suvives her. Ruth and Sam moved to Whispering Pines NC in 1992.

Work history-Over the years, Ruth had many occupations, including a telephone operator and waitress. She became a certified ophthalmic assistant in surgery and had managed her husband’s practice beginning in 1969. She opened her own travel agency, Dream Cruises and Tours, which she continued to run until her illness.

Enjoyments, pleasures, and notable things she accomplished in life. Ruth was an avid traveler, and cruises were her favorite way to see the world. She loved watching sports, her favorites being hockey, football, tennis and ice skating. She loved knitting, crossword puzzles and spending time with her family.

Besides her husband, she is survived by two sisters, Mildred MacDonald of Uncasville CT and Joyce Dux of North Troy,VT, 3 children, Donna Barsalou of Enfield CT, Karel Eyberse and wife Christine of Enfield CT, and Denise Stelmat and husband Tim of Whispering Pines NC, 5 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents and two brothers, Burton Barber and Charles Barber

Funeral Services will be held at Church & Allen Funeral Home, 136 Sachem St., Norwich, CT on Saturday, Feb 21st at 10am followed by burial at Maplewood Cemetery in Norwich. Visitation will be held on Friday from 6pm to 8pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her name to Friend to Friend Domestic Violence Shelter, Carthage NC or any other domestic violence organization that assists battered women and children.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.churchandallen.com