Ruth Alwilda Miller

Ruth Alwilda Miller (nee Ferguson), passed away peacefully in her sleep of natural causes on 23 December 2021 at the age of 95.  Pre-deceased by her husband and love of her life Charles Douglas Fairbanks (Doug) Miller (1991), she was the last surviving member of her generation within our extended family (Miller, Phillips, DiSalvo, Kett, Sells).  She is survived by her children and their spouses, Perry Miller (Cathy), David Miller (Bonnie), Ronald Miller (Micky), Geoffrey Miller (Darlene) and Donna Pigden (nee Miller) (Bill).  She will be missed by her grandchildren, Chantal Miller, Jared Olson, Nathan Olson (Savannah), Jason Miller (Ashley Cyr), Troy Miller McLean (Joanne), Peggy Miller (Ben), Brittany Miller (Mike), Bill Pigden (Jnr)(Kaitlin) and Rachel Pigden (Cory).  She was blessed to have seven great grandchildren David Patrick Miller, Cameron and Sloane Miller McLean, Liam Pigden, Annabelle Olson, Emmett Olson and Estelle Olson.

Ruth Miller was a petite and physically fit woman throughout her long life.   A force to be reckoned with, she lived her life with courage, sacrifice, tenacity in the face of adversity, and an unconditional love for her family.  She was a very social person and loyal friend to many.   Ruth and Doug participated in numerous activities together such as square dancing, curling, and teaching fitness classes for seniors.  The boys in her family were often pressed into service as dance partners for the square dance parties they would frequently run at our family home. A devoted curler, Ruth and Doug participated in numerous curling bonspiels and often volunteered to support many National and International Curling Championships.  She finally gave up curling when she turned 80 years old, only because she could no longer exit the hack like the professionals.  An avid gardener she took great pride in her gardens that always looked well-groomed and beautiful with a variety of plants, colors and blooms.  In later years Ruth became very active in the St Peter and Paul Anglican church.  She and her dear friend Vera crafted many items for the Christmas Bazaar.

A devoted mother, she would make whatever sacrifices were necessary to support her children.  Ruth Miller was the definition of a life well lived.  Gone but, certainly not forgotten.  She will live forever in our hearts and minds.

We would like to thank the wonderful personal support workers and staff at Mount St Mary’s for the care and support they provided to our mother.  As per her wishes, she has been cremated.  A celebration of life will take place later this year.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society would be greatly appreciated.