Bessie Carolyn Ruth

Bessie Carolyn (Copenhaver) Ruth, 91, died Wednesday, April 24, 2013.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 17, at 1 p.m. at First Christian Church, 1st and Kennedy in Grand Junction. Inurnment will be at a later date in Kremmling.

Memorial services will be held on Friday, May 17, at 1 p.m. at First Christian Church, 1st and Kennedy in Grand Junction. Inurnment will be at a later date in Kremmling.

She was the last of seven children born to Franklin Edward and Bessie (Martin) Copenhaver on Dec. 5, 1921, in Hinsdale, Mont. She attended school there and graduated salutatorian in 1939. She was married to Robert LeRoy Ruth on June 14, 1940.

The couple moved to Denver in 1942 where their two children were born. In 1947 they moved to Hot Sulphur Springs, Colo., where they lived until moving to Grand Junction in 1991.

She was employed as a secretary and office manager for many years. She was a sponsor for various youth groups, and served in Chapter and state offices of the Order of Eastern Star. She was active in her churches and sang in various choirs. She enjoyed playing contract bridge.

Survivors include a daughter, Carol Ann Traynor, of Fruita; a son, Robert L. Ruth, Jr. and his wife, Dorothy, of Grand Junction; four grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grand children.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Hospice of Western Colorado, 3090B, N. 12th St., Grand Junction, CO 81506, or Sunshine Chapter #53, 2400 Consistory Court, Grand Junction, CO 81501.