elevated ZNjHO July 10, 1935 ~ July 8, 2026

elevated ZNjHO Private funeral arrangements entrusted to Assumption Catholic Funeral Home.

elevated ZNjHO We are saddened to announce the passing of Ruth Shirley Petruskavich on July 8, 2026. Just two days before her 91st birthday, she passed peacefully, with acceptance surrounded by her loving children and grandchildren after a short and swift decline in health.

elevated ZNjHO Born to Alexander & Bertha Sutherland in East Branch, Pictou County, Nova Scotia, Ruth was one of eight children raised on their rural family farm. She enjoyed sharing with her grandchildren how she milked cows before walking to school and shared a bed and bathwater with her siblings in their humble home. She always reminded them to be grateful for the comforts they are now lucky to enjoy.

elevated ZNjHO At 18, Ruth joined her older siblings Betty and Jack in relocating to the Greater Toronto Area to begin life in a new province. She met the love of her life, Stan Petruskavich (deceased 1993) while working at Parke-Davis; they married in 1969 and welcomed daughters Lynn (1972) & Shelly (1974). Family was always central to their lives, and they spent time together camping at Arrowhead Provincial Park, attending Blue Jays games at Exhibition Stadium, and taking nostalgic trips back to Nova Scotia. Ruth was a loyal and devoted mother who also helped many other families provide care to their young children – they all loved ‘Auntie Ruth’.

elevated ZNjHO Always reliable, she was the dedicated Mom who attended all the school events and provided a free ‘uber’ drive to anyone who needed a lift. She was elated when she became a “Gramma” to Maeve (2003), Elise (2004), Malaya (2006) and Lola (2008) – the grand girls were her pride and joy! She never missed a chance to share a hug or cuddle and watch them participate in their sports and hobbies. They will fondly remember her supposedly accidental ‘butt dials’ while attending University or High School classes. In retrospect, we think she just wanted to make sure they never went too long without thinking of her.

elevated ZNjHO She will be remembered for her love and enjoyment of a good game of Cribbage or Euchre. Her sharp mind and ability to recall who had played each card endured to the very end. She volunteered at the Credit Valley Hospital gift shop for over 21 years, accumulating 3,646 hours of service in support of her community. As an avid bowler well into her 80s, she was quietly competitive as she chased the leagues ‘high average’ designation, which she won on several occasions. Many of her closest friends had the pleasure of spending time every week with her at the bowling alley. Forever a Toronto Blue Jays and Leafs fan – she rarely missed a game.

elevated ZNjHO Ruth spent her last decades living in Oakville near family. She made many friends, young and old, in the neighbourhood. Her comforting presence and willingness to take a moment to stop for a friendly chat, ensured that she was well known and liked. Her last months at Chartwell Waterford were spent enjoying Bingo and exercise classes while continuing to make fast friends. It is a testament to her beautiful spirit that she will be missed by so many there too. We wish to thank the staff at Waterford and the PSWs with Ontario Health @ Home for their compassionate care that allowed her to age in place and feel supported.

elevated ZNjHO We will all miss looking into her beautiful eyes; a striking blue that always drew attention. Her love of a good cup of tea, DQ cone, lobster roll, and many sweet treats will be carried on by all of us in her absence.

elevated ZNjHO She will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.

elevated ZNjHO Ruth loved her cat Marlee, dog Niko, and often watched animal rescue shows on TV. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to support animal care at the Humane Society of Oakville, Milton & Halton (www.hsomh.ca).

elevated ZNjHO Several events honouring her life and legacy will be held over the weekend of August 28-30, 2026. Details and invitations to follow.

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