Ruby Madeleine Portfors passed away peacefully with family at her side in Calgary, Alberta, on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at the age of 100 years and 4 months. Ruby was born July 20, 1923 in Vesper, Saskatchewan to Gladys and William Dancy.
Ruby spent her formative years on the family farm and it is that Saskatchewan spirit that the family has always attributed to her longevity. She was strong willed and determined throughout her life.
She met and married Melvin Portfors in Calgary where they raised their two children, Brian and Karen. When the marriage ended Ruby took Karen and moved to the west coast to be closer to both her brother and sister. After raising Brian and Karen she worked in the financial services industry and at one point worked on a cruise ship.
In her 100 years Ruby has experienced more than most. She rode a horse to a one room schoolhouse, lived through the dirty 30’s, lost friends in the Second World War and the technological changes are too many to mention. Times were tough growing up and at one point the family lived in a converted grain elevator. Ruby always looked back on her life without regrets. She took each day as it came and despite many challenges she did not complain.
Ruby had a great sense of humor and could make us all laugh with her one liners. She had a special relationship with the Locke family and has shared many celebrations with the extended Locke families.
She was somewhat of a nomad and used to laugh about having moved more than 30 times. She lived alone and cared for herself until she was 92, at which time she moved in with her daughter Karen who has cared for her ever since and was at her side when she passed.
In July this year family and friends gathered to celebrate Ruby’s 100th birthday. She shined the whole day, not wanting to miss a minute. Her lifelong friends of more than 80 years, Avis and Art Roemer sat at her side. The Calgary Fire Department has always held a special place in Ruby’s heart after her baby brother Bruce joined the department. A well-kept secret was revealed when 2 fire engines and crews appeared at the party! Ruby was elated and surprised everyone when she jumped up to head outdoors for a photo in front of the trucks. No words can describe the enjoyment shared that day and those are the memories we will all now treasure.
Ruby is survived by her daughter Karen Fletcher(Terry), daughter in law Wendy Portfors (Dave), 4 grandchildren, Christine Williams (Bob), Jason Fletcher (Marilyn), Amber Norby (Doug) and Cassie Fletcher, half-brother Bill Dancy, niece Diane Wellman, sister in law Mary Dancy, as well as 10 great grandchildren and 12 great great grandchildren.
Ruby was predeceased by her son Brian, brother Bruce Dancy, sister Moneca Tayler, and a great great granddaughter.
If so desired, donations can be made to the Calgary SPCA via their website at https://www.calgaryhumane.ca or an animal rescue organization of your choice.
There will be a private family service and in April, 2024, there will be a Celebration of Life gathering.
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