Obituary of Ruth Sarah Fraser

RUTH SARAH (DERGES) FRASER October 6, 1925 - March 15, 2016 Regina, Saskatchewan It is with great sadness that the family of Ruth Sarah (Derges) Fraser announces her passing on Tuesday, March 15, 2016 at the age of 90 years. Ruth will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 67 years, Murray M. Fraser, and their children Wendelin (Ron), Jim (Pat), and Arla (Kevin). Ruth will also be fondly remembered by her five grandchildren, Ryan, Emma, Eric, Braden and Bryce. Ruth was predeceased by her parents, George and Anna Derges; her brother David, his wife Helen and their son Allan. Ruth will also be forever remembered by her nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Everyone who knew Ruth recognized she had a passion for music, a devotion to family and friends, and a quick wit. Along with her blonde hair and beautiful smile that could light up a room, she stood out from the crowd in her many red outfits. Following graduation from Balfour Collegiate, Ruth trained in health administration and began working in the Records Department of the Regina General Hospital in 1944. It was there she met a young Dr. Murray Fraser. Ruth and Murray married in 1948 and moved to Montreal for four years while Murray completed his surgical training. Ruth resumed her work in hospital administration until their return to Regina in 1954. Ruth enjoyed music from an early age, and earned a reputation as a talented mezzo-soprano. She participated in several singing groups including the Ninettes in the 1940s, and enjoyed her experiences in concerts and operettas. She continued her voice training in Montreal where she became first soloist at the First Presbyterian Church during her stay there. Throughout her life, she was involved in choir. Music brought her great joy. Ruth loved her home city of Regina and was active in her community through volunteer efforts including the Regina Symphony Women, mentor for Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, and activities associated with the Wascana Golf and Country Club. A Funeral Service to Celebrate the Life of Ruth, will be held at Lakeview United Church, 3200 McCallum Avenue, Regina, SK, on Friday, March 18 at 10:30 a.m. with Reverends Sue Breisch and Jo Mader officiating. You are welcome to wear red. Interment will follow in Riverside Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the memory of Ruth to the Regina Symphony Orchestra, 2424 College Ave., Regina, SK, S4P 1C8 (reginasymphony.com).