June 2, 1917 ~ May 21, 2016 • It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our mum Ruby Elvira Gudbranson on May 21, 2016, surrounded by her loving family. Ruby was born on June 2, 1917 in Lundemo, Alberta, the 2nd youngest of thirteen children. Years later her family moved to Spalding, Saskatchewan where she met her husband to be, George. They went to school together and since he had musical talent was soon accepted into the family “Selin Band”that played at community events. When George left Saskatchewan to mine in Quebec, Ruby followed shortly after. They were married in Bourlamaque, Quebec on August 26, 1939. Last year they celebrated 76 years of marriage. George made a change in employment joining the Air Force and was stationed in
British Columbia. Ruby once again joined him, now with two young sons. The last posting for this family was in Ucluelet and this was to become their home from 1944 to 1975, during that time, two more children, a son and daughter were born. In 1975
they moved to Parksville for early retirement.Ruby had over thirty years of volunteering with VIHA, playing the piano at various
senior homes in Parksville, Qualicum and Nanaimo. She loved organizing events and playing with the “Coombs Old Time Fiddlers” her extended family. Ruby was gifted with musical talent she played the accordion, guitar, violin and piano and also composed her own piece of music called “Ruby’s Waltz”. This lovely piece of music is played at the beginning of each “gig”. Just days prior to her passing she finished composing another short waltz. Ruby kept her wits smart by reading, playing crib and doing crossword puzzles
every day. She enjoyed watching birds at the feeder and loved her weekly bouquet of flowers from George. She was blessed with many loving friends,neighbors and family. Ruby was pre-deceased by her daughter Noreen and daughter-in-law Bette. She is survived by her husband George, sons Allan (Sharon) Roger (Anne) Harvey (Adeline)seven grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, one step grandson and one step great great grandson, numerous nieces and nephews and loving friends.
A celebration of life will be held at the Qualicum Rotary Hall at 211 Fern Road West, Qualicum Beach on July 16th at 1pm.
Expressions of condolences to the family may to sent to ragudbranson@gmail.com