Ruth Elizabeth Bulmer – 94, Truro. Ruth died peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, August 17, 2023, in Dartmouth. Born in Canning, she was the daughter of the late Rudolph and Kathleen (Eaton) Schafheitlin. She grew up on a farm in Canard near Jawbone Corner, and always referred to the Annapolis Valley as "God’s Country".
Ruth was proud to be a third-generation graduate of Mount Allison University and was a devoted Allisonian. She was a bright student, and her graduation was followed by a scholarship to the London School of Economics, after which she returned to Truro to work as a social worker. It was here where she met her devoted husband Richard (Dick) and raised their family. She soon gave up her career to run the household. She ran a tight ship; mealtimes were punctual and no one ever dared to mess with Mamma Bear’s rules or schedules! She was a great cook and many had the pleasure of savouring her chocolate chip cookies and her baked beans and brown bread on Saturday nights. The family will never forget the gales of laughter drifting upstairs when her bridge club gang met. She loved to read and to be part of lively book club discussions. She was a wonderful mother, and eventually grandmother and great-grandmother, who showed tremendous strength and grit following her husband’s death nearly thirty years ago.
Ruth was very active and a long-time member of St. Andrew’s United Church. She attended the United Church Women’s group and was a member of the University Women’s Club. For many years she was often found in the kitchen supporting a church event or community meal. Ruth lived an honourable life and showed her children the importance of ethical living. Good humour and compassion were her trademarks and she always had a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued.
Summers were treasured at Spencer’s Point, near Great Village, where she showed her children the virtues of simple country living in a cottage that Dick built mostly on his own. Her kitchen produced delicious and nutritious meals, often prepared from home grown vegetables and on a few special occasions a fresh catch from the Bay of Fundy. And many a conversation was had with those going to or from their daily swim in the Bay or walking around "the loop".
Ruth Bulmer lived a long and good life. She was predeceased by her husband, Richard Bulmer; son-in-law, David Bransby-Williams; sisters-in-law, Dorothy (Art) Shears and Joan Raich. She is survived by her children, Anne, Deborah (Don), Ronald (Anne), Christine (Barry); cousin, Mac (Millie) Eaton, who she considered a brother; grandchildren, Damian, Joanna, Nicola, Laura, Mitchell, Emma, Tessa; step-grandchildren, Matthew, David and Margaret; great grandchildren, Gwyneth and Eleanor.
A very special thanks to Sue Bulmer (Francis) and Deanna Clark (Dave) and family for loving and caring for Mom as if she was their own. We would also like to thank the staff at Melville Heights and Laurel’s Lake Residence for taking such great care of Mom in recent years.
A service in memory of Ruth’s life will be held at St. Andrew’s United Church, 55 King Street, Truro, at 2 p.m., Saturday, September 23, 2023, with Reverend Shannon MacLean officiating. Reception will follow. Private interment in Terrace Hill Cemetery, Kaulback Street, Truro.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Andrew’s United Church or a charity of your choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall - Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Public messages of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing Ruth’s obituary on-line and selecting "Send A Condolence" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com
Link for funeral livestream:
https://youtube.com/live/3m9GfDgMs7g?feature=share