Ruth Viola SPINK

Ruth was born in Prince Rupert on August 22, 1930 to Norwegian parents, Otto Jerstad and Astrid Olsen.  She grew up in Prince Rupert and in 1949 married Carl Johnsen.  Their son, Robert was born in 1950 and their daughter, Dale in 1951.

In 1955, Ruth started work with BC Forestry. 

In 1974, Ruth and Carl celebrated their 25th anniversary. The children were now all grown up with families of their own.  Bob (Marg) had a son, Chris and a daughter, Jen.  Dale (Bob Dybhavn) had two daughters, Carla and Keri; two sons, Ron and John.  The rest of Ruth’s family were there.  Brother, Arnold; sister, Eileen and family; sons, Robbie and Greg and daughters, Lynne and Ann.  The party was at the house of Ruthie’s stepmother, Annie.

In 1978, after 23 years with forestry in Prince Rupert, Ruth transferred to the head office in Victoria.

Ruthie The Great

In 1979, Ruthie met Harry in Victoria at the Curling Club and that’s how it started.  In 1980, they rented a duplex on Ralph Street facing the entrance to Swan Lake.  In 1981 they bought a house on Quadra Street just before the overpass to Royal Oak, and opposite the church.

In 1985 they got married and went to England to meet Harry’s friends and family and then on to Norway to meet Ruth’s parent’s families.  They stayed with Annie, Ruth’s stepmother and her relations.  Great time.

In 1987, after 32 years, Forestry offered Ruth an early retirement package that she accepted.

In 1991, Harry was transferred to Nanaimo, so they moved to Qualicum, built a house on Eaglecrest and joined the Golf Club.  Played there for 16 years.

In March 1992, Ruth’s granddaughter, Carla Long gave birth to her first great grandchild, Hayden.  Over the years that followed the number slowly rose to 13 from her various grandchildren and her mantle was established.

In 2016, her title increased with the birth of Crosbie, her 1st great, great granddaughter - parents, Hayden & Devon.

Ruth’s Great Grandchildren

Hayden                1992

Brandon               1996

Jordyn                  2000

Skyler                    2002

Ethan                    2002

Nolan                    2003

Jessie                    2004

Grace                    2005

Cameron             2005

Ashley                  2007

Isobel                    2007

Sidney                  2008

River                      2010