Date de Décès: 2007-08-11
Date de Parution: 2007-08-14
Source: The Tribune, Welland, ON
RUSTON, Dodie (nee Huggins) - It is with great sadness, that the family of Dodie Ruston, announce her passing on August 11, 2007, at home, with her husband Paul, Daughter and son-in-law Sari Ruston and Arne Rungi, Son Bret Ruston, and Daughter and son-in-law Leslie Ruston and Fred Eckert by her side. Dodie will be dearly missed by her Mother, Doris Huggins (nee Schoenhals) and her father, the late Lessily Huggins. Much loved by her sisters and brothers, Patricia (Ronald) Dmytrow, Herb Huggins, Jean (Peter) Rice, Lessily (Natasha) Huggins, Alan (Ginny) Huggins, Bill (Sue) Huggins and Kathleen 'Kathie' (Tim) Morningstar. Lovingly remembered by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Kenneth (Gail) Ruston, Earl (Shelly) Ruston, Jim (Karen) Ruston, Larry (Shirley) Ruston, Christine Ruston, Paula Ruston, Jennifer Ruston and Chris Ruston. Beloved Aunt to her many nieces and nephews. Dodie was predeceased by her father and mother-in-law, Bert and Elaine (nee Schaeffer) Ruston who always held a very special place in her heart. A shining example of faith, hope, courage and love to all whose lives she touched. Long time Sherkston resident, Dodie was born in Welland, Ontario, on September 14, 1949. Growing-up in a family of eight children made life eventful. Most summers her parents took the family camping, as they enjoyed being active in the outdoors. This outdoor enjoyment extended to her adult life, as she was an avid gardener and landscaper. Dodie took great pride in her flower beds, and was always sure to include special plantings from family and friends. Her son Bret equally enjoyed this past-time, and has continued the traditions of her gardens in her honour. Soon after Dodie first met Paul, introduction were made to each others' families, and fate was set - Dodie passed the Gaseline coke test, and Paul made it past the discriminating eyes of Les and the Mrs. Paul and Dodie were married on April 17, 1971. Dodie and Paul bother revered in family, and so the addition of three children was a natural succession. A strong woman who believed in fairness, Dodie stood up for what she believed in and didn't back away from conflict if she knew she was right- she imparted this value in others. Dodie wasn't one to do much traveling outside of the country, unless it was to head down to Daytona in March with her friends and family. In particular, she enjoyed these moments with her youngest daughter, Leslie, who made sure Dodie made it to Daytona even through her extended illness. In light of her love of home, Dodie and Paul put an in-ground pool in to their property. Many family and friends partook in the summer ritual of the backyard swim and barbeque. Most nieces and nephews learned how to swim the 'Dodie way', whether they liked it or not! When Dodie didn't have the pool in full swing, she often spent extended periods of time taking her Daughter, Shari, to Track & Field practices and competitions. Dodie could often be seen running along side the track yelling out split times, or arching her back simultaneously as her daughter went over the high jump bar. Dodie's extra-curriculars didn't end there, as she was an avid volleyball player with Welland Ladies and Club Champlain. Thursday was volleyball night in the Ruston household, and the event didn't start on the court. Dodie, and her long time friend, Linda, would begin the evening with coffee, and end it with a plate of wings and a beer. In her working life, Dodie and Paul were, for the most part, jointly self-employed, first opening and running Medina Supply in Fredonia, New York, and then later Ruston's automotive in Port Colborne. Much enjoyment took place in the daily rituals and antics that ensued with their loyal customers and friends. In the last few years of her life, Dodie's illness kept her close to home. While she continued to attend to some of the business affairs, she spent most of her time with her family, enjoying her animals and conversing with close friends, such as her midnight phone calls to her good friend Debbie. Dodie enjoyed life, fought hard against her illnesses. She was supported to the end, and always knew that she was much loved. Dodie will sadly missed and fondly remembered. The family wishes to thank many Organizations that were integral to her care in Hospital and at Home: Hamilton General Hospital, Hospice Niagara, McMaster University Medical Centre, Niagara Falls General Hospital, OPT, ParaMed, Port Colborne General Hospital, Red Cross, VON and CCAC. Much appreciation goes out to the many Doctors, Nurses, Personal Support Workers, and volunteers that went above and beyond to make Dodie's care exceptional. Special thanks to: her Family Physician, Dr. Charlene Wayda, and her assistants Shannon and Sharon; the Nursing staff at the Port Colborne Hospital; the Palliative care team at the Niagara Falls General Hospital; her home care Registered Nurses, Stacey, Dawn, Elsie, Irene, Pat, Paula, Ruth, Sandra and Terri; her TPN Co- ordinator and Physician, Stella Stevens and Dr. Armstrong; her PSW's Yvette, Betty and Janice; and her Hospice volunteer, Sue. A private memorial service to celebrate her life will be held in September. The family has suggested that any memorial contributions be made to the Port Colborne General Hospital Foundation, 260 Sugarloaf Street, Port Colborne, ON L3K 2N7 (905) 378 4647. J. W. Hart Funeral Home, 905-774-6335. 10782216