Obituary of Elfriede Bedesky

BEDESKY, Elfriede (Ruth)

Feb. 10, 1928 – Jan. 15, 2018

Suddenly but peacefully passed away in her 90th year. Survived by her children, Baron and Birgit (Michael), and grandchild Camden (Stephanie). Cherished aunt of Dieter, Gitta, Kurt, Reimar, and Gudrun among many others. Lifelong friend of Brigitte Bruhn (Henry). Predeceased by her loving husband Frank, parents Waldemar and Frieda, and siblings Ilse, Harry, Kurt, and Joachim. Ruth was born in Wittenberg, Germany and arrived in Canada in 1956. Together with husband Frank, whom she met in 1959, she helped operate one of the Niagara Region’s last remaining commercial sawmills, B.F. Bedesky Logging and Lumber in Wainfleet Township, from 1965-1991. Ruth was a vibrant spirit, had a rebellious nature but was a sentimental soul. She was a creative force who generated impressive pieces of art from the most inanimate objects and for many years was known throughout Southwestern Ontario for her “faberge-style” decorative egg creations. Through it all, her family remained her biggest joy. An uncompromising spirit, she bravely faced war, starvation, and great loss but overcame these many challenges life presented. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Heidehof where Ruth spent her final few years. Despite coping with dementia, her kindness and zest for life always shone through. Cremation has taken place and interment will occur at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region or the Royal Canadian Legion. Family and friends can gather at George Darte Funeral Home, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines, on Saturday, January 27 from 10 am to noon immediately followed by a service and a light lunch.