Ruth Blanch, a beloved mother, grandmother, and community pillar, passed away tragically on January 6, 2026, in Scarborough, Ontario, at the age of 80. Born on January 10, 1945, in Chernovitz, Romania, Ruth’s journey through life was marked by resilience, compassion, and an
unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Ruth’s early years in Romania were shaped by the challenges of a post-war environment, but she carried with her an indomitable spirit and a thirst for knowledge that would guide her throughout her life. In her youth, she developed a love for reading and the arts, often losing herself in the pages of books or the magic of the theatre. This passion for learning extended beyond literature; Ruth was fascinated by languages and dedicated herself to mastering several, believing that communication was a bridge to understanding and connection.

In her professional life, Ruth made a significant impact as a Pulmonary Function Technician at the Hospital for Sick Children, where she devoted over 33 years of her life to caring for children with respiratory issues. Ruth’s compassion extended to her patients, and her colleagues admired her for her unwavering commitment to the well-being of the children she served.

Her commitment to her work was matched only by her love for her family. Ruth was a devoted mother to her two daughters, Lara and Odette, who were the center of her universe. She poured her heart and soul into raising them, instilling in them the values of kindness, perseverance, and the importance of education. Ruth often took on additional jobs to ensure that her daughters had everything they needed to thrive. Her tireless work ethic and selflessness were a testament to her love and devotion as a mother.

Ruth’s nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family. For nine years, she opened her heart and home as a foster mother, providing love and support to children in need. This experience enriched her life and allowed her to make a profound difference in the lives of many. In her later years, Ruth continued to give back to her community by helping new immigrants navigate the complexities of settling in a new country. She offered guidance on finding work and pursuing education, embodying the very essence of generosity and kindness.

A beloved member of the Beaches Hebrew Institute, Ruth attended services every Saturday for over 20 years. While she may not have been
religious in the traditional sense, her spirituality and deep connection to Jewish culture were evident in all aspects of her life. She celebrated her heritage with fervour, participating in the Ashkenazi Festival, enjoying films through the Jewish Film Society, and hosting holiday dinners that brought family and friends together in joyous celebration.

An avid traveller, Ruth cherished the experiences and memories created through her journeys. She believed that exploring the world was an
essential part of learning and personal growth. In a surprising twist to her multifaceted life, Ruth also embraced the discipline of karate, dedicating herself to the practice and achieving the esteemed rank of black belt. This pursuit exemplified her determination and tenacity, qualities that she carried into every endeavour she undertook.

Ruth’s legacy lives on through her daughters, Lara and Odette, and her grandsons, Arik, Kaderick, and Ruegen. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit, embodying the values she instilled in them: compassion, resilience, and the importance of community. Ruth’s love for her family was boundless, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments and happiness.

As we remember Ruth, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life dedicated to love, service, and the pursuit of knowledge. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Hospital for Sick Children, an institution that Ruth held dear to her heart. Her legacy will continue to touch the lives of countless children and families through the work of this remarkable hospital.

Ruth Blanch will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her memory be a blessing and a guiding light for all who were fortunate enough to be part of her extraordinary journey.

Memorial donations may be made to Sick Kids Hospital (https://www.sickkids.ca/)