Miriam Eileen (Leary) Ruttan

Miriam grew up in Chilliwack, BC with her parents and her two older sisters. Growing up many of Miriam’s summers and weekends were spent out at the family cabin at Cultus Lake, swimming, roller skating and scooping Ice Cream at the Ice Cream shop. She attended College after high school and received her Teachers Certificate. She taught for a short time before she met Allan, “the Love of her Life”. Miriam and Allan were married in Chilliwack on July 14th, 1962.

Miriam took a break from teaching while she raised her young children and supported Allan and his career which moved him often. Without a fuss or complaint Miriam settled the family into homes in Kamloops, Calgary, Edmonton, Prince George, Dauphin and Prince Rupert. Miriam returned to her teaching career once her kids were in school. She taught until her retirement in 1998.

Chilliwack was always “Home” to Miriam, so once the two eldest children left home Miriam and Allan moved to Chilliwack. Miriam taught at Central Elementary School in Chilliwack the same school she went to as a child and where her sister, Dorothy was her student teacher in grade one.

After a few years Miriam and Allan decided to build their forever home at Cultus Lake where the Leary family cabin had once stood. Miriam loved the lake and the amazing views it had to offer. Miriam taught at Cultus Lake Community School and took great pride in teaching the children of her community.

She spent many mornings walking with her walking group at the lake. None of her children or grandchildren could ever keep up to her fast pace. Miriam was also an avid quilter which she did beautifully. Each of her children and grandchildren feel her warmth when wrapped in one of her handmade with love quilts.

Many non-profit organizations benefited from Miriams talents. Cooking, baking, organizing events, selling tickets, sewing, quilting, making phone calls and the list goes on.

Miriam enjoyed when her family came to visit. She loved watching the children and grandchildren swimming in the lake, playing cards, laughing and teasing each other. She cherished her family time and never took it for granted. She will deeply be missed by her children Karen(Garth), Brenda(Paul), Heather(Carl), Ross(Kelly), by her grandchildren Breanna(Jordan), Graham(Cassie), Tyler, Sarah, Makayla, Kyle and great-grandson Sawyer.

Miriam and Allan had the perfect Love Story, completely in love and committed to each other till death due us part. Allan passed away in May, the family takes great comfort in knowing they are together again.

No funeral service is planned. Miriam and Allan will be put to rest together by the family at a later date.

Please leave messages and memories in the Book of Condolences for the family to enjoy.