Ruth Lorraine Shifs

On October 19, at 97, Ruth passed away peacefully. She was preceded in death by her husband, Philip and is survived by her children, Judy Ringseis(Jim), Denise Waite(Jim), Jeffrey Shifs(Kathy), grandchildren, Brian and Michael Ringseis, Austin Waite, who preceded her in death, Adam Waite, Alexis Linder, Sierra Shifs and 6 great grandchildren.

Ruth was born in San Francisco on 6/1/1925 to Helen and Max Bushner. She was the third oldest of seven children and was known as Toodie to her family. Her maternal ancestors left England and settled in Massachusetts in 1630. She is a descendent of the American Revolution. Ruth lived in Oakland until she was 14 when the family moved to Texas. After a year, they moved back to the Richmond Dist. where she lived for more than 8 decades. She went to G. Washington High ‘43 where she met her high school sweetheart, Phil. On 6/24/1945, they were married and started their life together lasting 72 years. She was a devoted daughter, a loving wife and mother and a proud grandma who shared a special bond with each of her grandchildren. She was a talented artist, loved to dance, travel, was always dressed to the nines and never met a slot machine she didn’t like. She enjoyed working at the SF Merchandise Mart for almost forty years. She was kind, caring, affectionate, loyal, strong-willed, outgoing with a good sense of humor and an unwavering devotion to her family. Her warmth and kindness endeared her to all who knew her. Her home was warm and inviting, a place where everyone was welcome. If someone dropped by, there was always room for one more at the table. Ruth and Phil were very social, had lots of friends, loved entertaining and never passed on a party. Their calendar was always full and their weekends were always booked. Toodie had a full rich life and will be missed by her family and those who loved her.

We’d like to express our sincere gratitude to the dedicated and kind staff at AlmaVia of San Rafael, Bridge Haven Memory Care, By the Bay Health Hospice and Janet Winegarner, RN. A private service will be held and a Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.