Ruth B. Bockius, a devoted mother, compassionate nurse and respected educator, passed away Tuesday (Sept. 24) at age 87. Described lovingly as a spitfire for her intellectual curiosity and her sharp wit, Ruth had a lifelong commitment to others - her family, friends and coworkers. She was born in Reading, PA and moved to Arizona in 1958, fell in love with Phoenix and lived here for the rest of her life. Her license plate read LUV AZ. She received a bachelor's degree in nursing and a master's degree in adult education at Arizona State University, culminating in her position as Director of Education at Maryvale Samaritan Hospital. Ruth's life was not all work and no play. She loved painting, dancing, music, theatre, reading and entertaining. She was a lifelong fancier of felines. A passion for travel took her repeatedly to her beloved Grand Canyon, Hawaii and San Francisco. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Thomas B. Bockius, and daughters Donna and Dawn. Visitation will be at West Resthaven Funeral Home at 6450 W. Northern Ave. on Friday (Sept. 27) from 6 to 8 p.m. Services will be at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 1500 W. Maryland Ave. on Saturday (Sept. 28) at 1 p.m.
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