July 11, 1925 - May 18, 2019
Born in Smithers July 11, 1925 to Johan and Hessie Langston and passing away May 18, 2019 at the Pines Care Facility in Burns Lake at the age of 93. Ruth married Bruce Bateson and they had 3 children; Norman (Shorty) Dec 1, 1948 - May 20, 2000; Douglas April 22, 1950 - April 20,1998 and Barbara April 29, 1952 - Aug 31, 2006. After Bruce's death, Ruth married Tom Ridler. Ruth was predeceased by both her parents, both husbands, her three children and her sister Rosa Clowater. She is survived by Rosa's two daughters and son, Bateson nephew and nieces, including Victor (Ann) Bateson of Grassy Plains.
Ruth loved the outdoors and her animals. She raised both registered horses and goats plus always had numerous cats and dogs. Horseback riding was her joy partaicipating in Horse Poker Rides and other horse excursions. Her riding companions were often Helen Brown, Gwen Hopper and Nathen and Ellie Foote. Ruth had a solid pioneer spirit and possessed many survival skills. She was a very hard worker and would attempt most everything including using a rifle to protect her livestock. She built sheds, gardened, fell trees and cut them into stove lengths as well as cut hay with a scythe. She could be seen anywhere from Vanderhoof to Smithers (and occasionally Prince George) collecting cans along the highway. Ruth did whatever was necessary to make money to look after herself and her family. She really enjoyed visiting people and the ideal job for her was census taking, which she did for many years. Working as a guard at the Police Station and as a Nurses'Aid in the Smithers hospital were some of her other jobs. Ruth sold goats, chickens, eggs and garden produce that she raised on her homestead. Ruth always make a trip down to the Okanagan each fall to purchase fruit for home canning and freezing. Ruth's critical eye earned her a place as a judge for swine, poultry and rabbits at the Smither's Fall Fair. Her green thumb made her plants, especially her Christmas Cactuses spectacular. Ruth's life was hard, but she lived it with courage and strength. Ruth was an avid reader, and loved classical music. She made a trip across Canada via train, stopping and staying where she wished. Ruth collected doors, windows and used material from many old buildings and then with that same pioneer spirit- she had a home built with her collection. She will be missed by all that knew her. Ruth generously willed all of her assets to the Burns Lake Ladies Auxilliary in honour of her three children and the excellent health care they received during their illnesses. A service will be held July 6th at 2 pm at the United Church in Burns Lake.