Ruth Crinion

CRINION, Ruth (nee Swarbrick) died peacefully at the age of 97 on August 13, 2023, at the Billings Lodge Retirement Community in Ottawa. Ruth was born in Ormskirk, Lancashire, England on August 2, 1926. As a vivacious and determined young woman, she aided in the war effort at home, learning to drive and maintain a military truck and serving as an officers’ driver. Ever resourceful and creative, she became an accomplished seamstress, cook and gardener which gave her a lifetime of pride and satisfaction. In 1952 she married David Ellis Crinion and immigrated to Canada with their first son Jonathan in 1954, settling in Ottawa. Ruth became well-known in Ottawa as ‘the purple lady’ and is fondly remembered for her role at Wild Things boutique where customers became friends and fans. She also designed and sewed clothing for private clients and produced costumes for various theatre performances. When she wasn't working, she would be tending her marvellous flower garden and giving lively instruction to anyone interested!

Ruth is survived by her son Jonathan, daughters DianaCrinion and Joanna Jarvis (Patrick) and grandchildren Stefan, Cara, Shaun, Erin, Jennifer and Zoe and 13great grandchildren. Sadly, Ruth’s second son, Roger passed away on January 15, 2023. Ruth will also be greatly missed by Carolyn Tong and Elizabeth Aikenhead.

The family would like to thank Ruth’s neighbour Cheryl Pellerin and Carolyn for their support and compassion over the past several years, as well as the wonderful staff at Billings Lodge for their excellent care.

At Ruth's request, cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.McEvoy-Shields.com for the Crinion family.