Ruth Newman Zake

A life long Cleveland native, she was the mother, grandmother and friend that everyone wishes they had. Though almost 94, she was ever optimistic and ageless, embracing new ideas and technologies (she loved her Apple devices). Ruth stood on strong, loving shoulders, encouraged by her parents, Morris and Ida Dores Kaber, to be fearless. And she was.

Ruth is predeceased by husbands Lee Rubenstein, Albert Newman and Harry Zake.

Ruth leaves an unforgettable legacy of wisdom for her children - Michael Newman (Debbie), Larry Rubenstein (Jan) and Joyce Rubenstein (Paul Haubert); grandchildren - Chelsea DiCarlo (Rick), Marissa Rubenstein, Arielle Rubenstein and Trevor Haubert (Emily) and great grandchild, Michael DiCarlo — make every day count, what’s important is being together with family, find happiness in the everyday and continue the family’s Jewish traditions she so valued.

From John Adams High School she went on to graduate from Ohio University in 1952, becoming first a Dietician at the Children’s Receiving Home, then after a brief time at home with her children, returning to college to get a teaching degree. She taught Home Economics in the Heights School System for more than 25 years.

After retiring, it was an undeniable fact that Ruth never stood still; organizing, cooking, knitting, reading, going out to eat, traveling the world and cross country to visit family and pursuing her particular passion… shopping (retail therapy for happy and sad times). Ruth loved to be up on the news. In fact, the soundtrack of her daily life was MSNBC.

Ruth’s love language was food… From blueberry muffins to honey cake, chicken soup with matzo balls and so much more. She created recipes, altered existing ones and was always available for cooking consultations. There was nothing that couldn’t be solved around a kitchen table.

With a smile for everyone, in Ruth’s world there were no strangers, only friends she hadn’t met.

The family would like to acknowledge Ruth’s dear friend, Helene Broidy, who helped make the last 6 years at Wiggins Place a truly wonderful time. And to Rabbi Sokol for his friendship and compassion. As well, to Ruth’s aides from Helping Hands who supported her this last year. And lastly, to Vinney Hospice, thank you for the kindness and respect you showed Ruth. It made all the difference.

Funeral services for Ruth will be held at Berkowitz-Kumin-Bookatz Memorial Chapel, 1985 S Taylor Rd, Cleveland Hts, OH 44118 on Tuesday, April 4 at 10 AM.

To view this service at 10 AM on Tuesday please navigate to the Services section below and click on JOIN LIVESTREAM.

Interment will follow at Mt. Olive Cemetery (Jewish War Veterans section), 27855 Aurora Rd, Solon, OH 44139.

The family will receive friends following burial at Embassy Suites Beachwood, 3775 Park East Dr, Beachwood, OH until 3 PM. The family will next receive friends on Tuesday from 6 to 8 pm at the Zake residence, 27070 Cedar Rd #271, Beachwood, OH.

Contributions in Ruth's memory are suggested to the Gathering Place (www.touchedbycancer.org), Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio or the charity of choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bkbmc.com for the Zake/Rubinstein family.