Section: 324 Lot: 274 Grave: 1
Ruthe Blackwood
Born: October 10th, 1919
Died: March 26th, 2019
Obituary
Ruthe Blackwood, Burlington died March 26, 2019 at the age of 99.
She was born in rural Des Moines County, October 10, 1919 to Carl A. and Myrtle Bloomberg Swenson. She was united in marriage to Bill F. Blackwood June 18, 1942 in Immanuel Lutheran Church, Mediapolis. He died August 18, 1999.
She was a graduate of Huron High School and the Burlington College of Commerce. Prior to her marriage she was a secretary for the late Dr. E.P. (Cappy) Russell.
A member of Messiah Lutheran Church, she belonged to the women's organizations, especially the Ruth-Mary Elizabeth Circle. She helped form and organize P.E.O. Chapter OW, supported Bel Canto Chorale, and the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra. She was a long-time member of Margaret Bottom #2 Kings Daughters Circle. When it disbanded she became a part of the WhatSoEver Circle. In her younger years she was a member of the Burlington Women's Club, its Needlework and Home and Garden #2 Departments, a member of the Des Moines County Historical Society, had been a docent of the Phelps House and helped in the gift shop, and was a volunteer for the Friends of the Symphony. Ruthe enjoyed the fun and camaraderie associated with the Case Wives Bowling League and the Golf League. Family was the central part of her life.
Survivors include daughter Judy Toy, Hiawatha, IA; son Tom Blackwood, Ft. Myers, Florida and Burlington, Ia; grandson David Toy, Cedar Rapids, Ia; granddaughter Julie (Matt) Totten, Keokuk, Ia; granddaughter Amy (Kevin) Smith, Holland, MI; 4 great grandchildren Kingston and Abigail Smith, Holland MI and Ethan and Avery Totten, Keokuk, Ia; 10 nieces and nephews and 5 cousins.
She was predeceased by her husband, her parents, son-in-law Ken Toy, daughter-in-law Jill Blackwood, grandson-in-law Andrew McDonough, one brother and three sisters.
According to her wishes, cremation has been accorded. Lunning Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Celebration of life services will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church at 1:00 p.m. April 6, 2019 with Pastor Susanne Smith officiating. Private inurnment services at Aspen Grove will be held later. Visitation is one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Messiah Lutheran Church, Bel Canto Chorale and Burlington Beautiful.