Ruth West

This eulogy courtesy of the Glueckert Funeral Home.

Thank you all for being here today to celebrate the life of my beloved mother, Ruth West. Your presence and the outpouring of sympathy and encouragement have been deeply appreciated.
 
A Cherished Mother and Wife
Mom was not only a loving and devoted mother, but also a steadfast and affectionate life partner to our dad for an incredible 55 years. Their bond was a testament to true love, characterized by mutual admiration, deep respect, and unwavering loyalty, which endured even after his passing in 2020. Their partnership was an inspiration to all who knew them, a beautiful example of enduring love and commitment that transcended the various trials of life.
 
A Life of Love and Joy
Our mother, a devoted homemaker, found profound joy in life's simplest treasures. Her face would light up during her beloved bargain hunting expeditions, a time when she unearthed treasures that would bring boundless delight to her family.
 
Music was mom’s constant companion, offering her solace and happiness through its harmonious melodies. Her love for dancing was contagious, and she and my dad would effortlessly ignite the dance floor at weddings, their love and joy becoming a spectacle that warmed the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to witness it.
 
Mom's flair for flower arranging was a testament to her creative spirit, as she had an innate ability to infuse each arrangement with a touch of her artistry and an abundance of love for beauty. Whether it was a simple bouquet or an elaborate centerpiece, her arrangements were a reflection of her attention to detail, her keen eye for color and form, and her deep appreciation for the natural world. Each bloom and every stem was carefully selected and placed with precision, creating compositions that were, simply, beautiful.
 
The late-night conversations she shared with her sisters were not just moments in time, but threads that wove a tapestry of enduring love and sisterhood, creating cherished memories that would stand the test of time.
 
A Woman of Faith and Friendship
While mom may not have been particularly religious, her life was deeply intertwined with her Mormon upbringing. She held various responsibilities within the church and was known for hosting wonderful gatherings and workshops, from perfect brunch tutorials to crafting beautiful Christmas wreaths.
 
Unforgettable Friendships and Unmistakable Phrases
Mom's life was a tapestry woven with the threads of cherished friendships that brought immeasurable richness to her journey. From the enduring bonds with childhood friends to the profound connections forged through her involvement in church and community, the presence of her best friends, Una, Kimi, Margene, Jan, Darlene, Don, and Barbara brought boundless joy and support to her life. Her unique expressions, such as "Kick in the Pants!" and "What a kick!" were more than just phrases – they were an embodiment of her contagious humor and warmth, infusing every interaction with laughter and creating enduring memories of joy and camaraderie.
 
A Legacy of Unconditional Love
Mom possessed an extraordinary gift for making everyone she encountered feel not just acknowledged, but truly understood and embraced. Her genuine curiosity in others and her steadfast support turned her into a trusted confidante and friend to many. Her influence on the lives of those around her was profound, as her empathetic ear and compassionate heart left an enduring imprint on the souls she touched. Her legacy lives on through the countless individuals who found solace, understanding, and unfaltering encouragement in her presence.
 
Cherished Moments with Grandchildren
To her grandchildren, mom embodied the essence of unwavering and boundless love. Every moment spent with them was a treasured opportunity for her to envelop them in warmth, shower them with affection, and revel in the pure, unadulterated joys of childhood. Her home became a sanctuary of love, acceptance, and endless delights, where her grandchildren found solace and endless opportunities for merriment. Mom's love knew no bounds, and her enduring impact on her grandchildren's lives was a beacon of comfort and affection that will resonate throughout their lifetime.
 
Joyful Memories and Lasting Impact
Mom's infectious sense of humor, reliability, and unwavering positivity were the cornerstones of her character. Her ability to find joy in life's simple pleasures and her commitment to being there for her loved ones defined her. She was grateful for her heritage and family, and her love for music, especially lively tunes suitable for dancing, brought joy to all who knew her.
 
A Beautiful Legacy
In closing, I want to share a sentiment I posted on social media, encapsulating the essence of my mother: "My mom, Ruth, Ruthie, Rooster, passed away last week. My mom was an amazing mom and grandmother. She was there for all the moments, up and down. She thought her grandkids were the 'cats meow' and she beamed when with them. I love you mom."
 
Ruth South's legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering support will continue to inspire us all. As we honor her memory today, let's carry forward her spirit of joy, compassion, and friendship in our own lives.
 
Mom – You will always hold a place in our hearts. We will never forget you and will love you forever.

---