Ruth Marie Barnes, resident of Grande Prairie, AB, formerly of Lacombe, AB, passed away Sunday, July 21, 2024, at the age of 67 years.

Ruth was born in Lacombe on August 17, 1956, adopted by her loving parents, Clarence and Orah Hagen. Ruth was one of six siblings; she had brothers Lawrence, David and Chad, as well as sisters Sari and Shelly. When Ruth was young, her family moved to their homestead in Gordondale, AB, where she spent much of her childhood. Later moving to Grande Prairie to pursue her schooling in office administration. It was here that she met the love of her life, Brian Brewster, becoming stepmom to his two children, Cameron and Tamara. Soon after they welcomed daughter Dawna who completed their blended family.

The family moved around over the years, first to Revelstoke, BC, and then finally settling in Whitehorse where they resided for 18 years. In 1998, Ruth uprooted once again and moved back to Grande Prairie to be close to her daughter, Dawna.

Over the years, Ruth worked in office administration and managed various companies, though she found her niche when working for agencies that helped those who needed it most. It was in working with the Metis in Whitehorse or with the seniors at the Golden Age Centre that Ruth knew her calling in life was to help others. Ruth was immensely compassionate, smart and funny. Her giggle was infectious, and you couldn’t help but laugh with her when she joked about her “fink”.

Ruth was deeply saddened by the passing of her dear husband, Brian, which was something she never quite got over. However, Ruth found great companionship with her daughter Dawna. They would often go for drives just to catch lunch and spend time, daily walks, or simply curl up on the couch to watch shows in the evening. Ruth also found great joy in her grandchildren, whom she adored.

Ruth will be sadly missed by her children Dawna, Cameron (Katherine), Tamara; grandchildren: Tylene Barnes, Kendra Barnes, Willow Brewster, Max Brewster, and Taylor Barr; and sister-in-law Karen Hagen.

Ruth was predeceased by her husband Brian Brewster; parents Clarence and Orah Hagen; and brother Lawrence Hagen.

The family will be holding a Celebration of Ruth’s life at a later date.

Memorial donation’s can be made in Ruth’s honor to Grande Prairie’s Odyssey House (https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/16974).

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.oliversfuneralhome.com.