Obituary of Mary Ann Ruby

Mary Ann passed away peacefully on April 29^th, 2019, with her family around her, at the age of 80.  Beloved wife of Brian for 54 years, and loving mother of Kate (Mark), Len (Raegan), Matt, and Pat (Sheri).  Devoted 'Nana' cherished by grandchildren Jackson, Max, Parker, Quinn, Sam, Bennett, and Faeron.

Always dedicated to her family, she was the centre and driving force of many many family get-togethers.  Just a few days before her death she greatly enjoyed a very special family party to celebrate her 80th birthday

Mary Ann grew up in Elmira, the daughter of Marie and Keith Lowe. She graduated from Western University and while there became an accomplished actress, starring in several plays. She completed postgraduate studies at McGill University receiving a degree in Library Science, and she then worked as a librarian at the Kitchener Public Library.

Mary Ann was an active member of St. Mary’s Parish for many years, and she and Brian were particularly involved in working with many Vietnamese refugees.   She also spent a lot of time with the St. Vincent de Paul Society, helping those in need.

In the 1980s Mary Ann co-owned and operated The Village Sandwich Shoppe in downtown Kitchener.

Mary Ann was a voracious and lifelong reader, devouring both fiction and non-fiction in many subject areas. She was also an extraordinary cook, passing on an appreciation of food and the culinary arts to her children.  And she was a travel enthusiast with many trips to Europe, Bermuda, and other destinations over the years. She was an avid bridge player, and also very much enjoyed her book clubs.  Most of all she just enjoyed getting together with good friends, and spending time at the family cottage in Muskoka, and at their beach house on Longboat Key in Florida.

None of this was easy as Mary Ann suffered severely from rheumatoid arthritis which started when she was a teenager. It caused great debilitation and pain over the years, and required many surgical procedures.  But she never let it get her down or hold her back.  Mary Ann was always strong, determined and courageous. She will be greatly missed.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church, on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. Reception will be held immediately after the service in the church hall. A private family cremation will take place.

Condolences for the family or donations to the Grand River Hospital Foundation or the St. Mary’s General Hospital Foundation may be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com.