Ruth Zimmermann

Ruth lived a life of compassion, kindness, determination, and courage. Born in Switzerland, she spent her youth there and trained as a nurse. Ruth went on an adventure to Canada in 1972 finding her way to Valemount, where she lived for 45 years. Her caring and generous nature was known by many as she worked as a beloved cashier in the local grocery store for many years. Ruth was fiercely loved as a mother, Grossmutti (grandmother), and friend. Her smile brightened a room, and her laughter made you smile. Ruth had a great sense of humour, and small things brought her much joy. She found value in everything, from the littlest ladybug to the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. Ruth loved to collect rocks and pinecones – this spoke to her unfailing ability to find beauty in the smallest things.

Ruth enjoyed her time in nature and maintained an intense appreciation of all things in the natural world, which she found in abundance in Valemount. Whether hiking the Berg Lake Trail or the Cranberry Marsh Loop she could generally be found off trail and amidst the wildflowers. She spent her retirement mainly tending to her beloved garden, which was a reflection of her personality: unpretentious, uncompromising, a kind of chaotic beauty. Ruth’s last years were spent happily with her daughters’ families, split between Cochrane AB and Houston TX.

Ruth leaves behind her daughters, Barbara (Jeremy) and Monika (Trevor), and her granddaughters – Emma, Hannah, Clara, Ingrid and Aiya. She also leaves behind her brother (Hans Peter) and sisters (Margrit and Lydia) who live in Switzerland where she has many nieces and nephews.

Always kind, always passionate, and always ready to laugh.

We will miss you immensely. We love you beyond words.