Ruth Mae Gilmore

Ruth Mae (Van Maren) Gilmore, 86, of Traverse City, passed away on Monday, October 29, 2012 at Munson Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.

Ruth was born on July 28, 1926 in Traverse City to the late Frederic and Olive (Snow) Van Maren. She graduated from Traverse City Central High and attended Central Michigan University in Mt Pleasant. After her time in school she worked at Michigan Bell in the business office. She then met and married the love of her life, Miles B Gilmore. They were united in marriage on May 1, 1948 in Traverse City. Together they lovingly shared 63 years of marriage.

She was a devoted homemaker and Mother. She would always be there for her children's activities in school, or sporting events. She often was called the "Neighborhood Taxi" for her children and their friends.

Ruth was a member of the First Congregational Church. She enjoyed bowling, fishing on Long Lake, playing bridge with close friends Dave and Joan, and dancing. She and Miles traveled extensively after his retirement.

Ruth will fondly be remembered as a wonderful Wife, Mother, Nana and Grand-Nana.

Surviving Ruth are her children, Denise (Timothy) Neason of Middleville, MI, Bryce (Ursula "Kay") Gilmore of Libertyville, IL, and Craig (Miriam "Dollie") Gilmore of Traverse City, 5 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter.

Ruth is preceded in death by her parents, husband Miles, and sister, Dorothy Preston.

Visitation for Ruth will take place on Friday, November 9, 2012 from 4-7pm at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 11 am on Saturday, November 10, 2012, also at the funeral home. Dr Gary Hogue will officiate. Burial will take place at the Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association, Northwest Michigan Chapter, 921 W. 11th St, Suite 1W, Traverse City, MI 49684