Obituary
Ruth was born as Ruth Evelyn Shannon into a family with five siblings. She grew up in southwest Philadelphia and remained in the area for almost 90 years. As a young woman during World War II, she worked as a crane operator where she met her late husband, Laddie Grzesnikowski. They married in 1947 and remained together for 57 years until Laddie’s passing. Ruth is survived by her three daughters, Judy, Jane and Jaclyn; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. After raising her children, she began a career as a hairdresser and later enjoyed owning and operating a Flower Shop business with her daughter, Jane. It was during this time she met Rebecca “Becky” Kirby, who Ruth loved as another daughter. As a woman with a grand sense of humor, she was easily welcomed as a member of the Red Hat Ladies organization. She loved her neighbors like family and adored her church community and Bible study. Despite a legally-blind vision impairment for over 20 years, she learned to read again, loved playing cards (especially with her friend Rose) and lived independently with her dog, Sam. In December 2016, considering her 89 years and declining health, she chose to move to a senior community and warmer climate in Bonita Springs, Florida. Ruth was warmly welcomed, loved and admired by all of her neighbors and friends at American House. She will long be remembered for her quick wit, funny stories and strong will. Ruth is loved dearly and will be deeply missed by all who shared in her life. Special gratitude from the family to Irene Gambino of Bonita Springs. Her love and friendship with Ruth was truly unparalleled.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her honor to either:
- Pastor Tim’s Mission, 26086 Princess Lane, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 or
- Norwood United Methodist Church, 315 Chester Pike, Norwood, PA 19074
Family and friends may sign the guest register or leave condolence message by visiting www.baldwincremation.com.
Affordable Cremations by Baldwin Brothers is honored to serve the Grzesnikowski family.
Thanks for giving me an update. How appropriate to celebrate her life on the anniversary of when that incredible life began.
I have to share an example with you of what a special, caring person your mom was. When the ladies wanted to get together to celebrate my 75th birthday on 5/17/16, your mom insisted that I not wake up alone on my birthday. I had lost my beloved husband on 12/22/15 to Alzheimers and was really down just thinking about it. She planned to come and stay with me overnight.
God love her heart, after bringing dinner to Laura who was just out of the hospital, your mom took a fall down Laura's concrete steps as we were leaving. As you know, I took her to Springfield Hospital to be checked out. Thank God she was OK and we got home near midnight.
The next day 4 of us Red Hat sisters enjoyed a show in Lancaster's Sight and Sound theater, with dinner afterwards.
What a day, what a celebration, what a lady. She orchestrated a lovely outing on what could have been me having a pity party by myself.
Good night, sister-of-my-heart. Thanks for sharing your mom with us.
Love,
ellie
Aunt Ruth will be deeply missed. Our favorite Aunt! Loved her smile, laughter, wisdom, and all the good times we had in CA & PA.
You are in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers at this very sad time.
Love, Jeannie & Ted
Aunt Ruth - fun time
Aunt Ruth at the Tea House
Family
Favorite Aunt
Much love
Cathy
I was very lucky to have met your Mom even if it was for only a short period of time. She was a lovely lady!
My prayers are with you and your family. May She Rest In Peace!
Rose Libby
Mr. G and Mrs. G were special and close to my heart.
I was so lucky to visit with Mrs. G last July in Florida and catch up with her. The memories were flying. She even introduced me to some of her friend as an ole boy friend (I'm 20 years younger than Mrs. G)
She loved and was very proud of her girls and their families.
I will always have great memories, a part of my with the Grzesnikowski's
May God be with us all at this time.
We are so sorry for the loss of your dear mother. While I never met her Dorita has told me how special she was and that you shared a wonderful relationship.
Our sincere condolences during this sorrowful time.
Remember the good memories and know you made her last years joyful.
and friends durning this difficult time.