Iris (Garrett) Ruzek

THE VIDEO TRIBUTE HONOURING IRIS CAN BE SEEN BELOW.

   It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Iris Ruzek on July 28, 2021 at the Crowsnest Pass Continuing Care Centre, Blairmore, AB.  She was blessed with ninety-two well-lived years.

   Iris was born on March 25, 1929 in Coleman, AB to nurturing parents, Bert and Olive Garrett.  She matured into a beautiful, kind young woman who captured the heart of Rudolph “Rudy” Ruzek.  The happy couple wed on July 27, 1946, then went on to raise a lovely family of their own and to create countless wonderful memories over their sixty-year marriage. 

   Iris was a hardworking, devoted wife, mother and grandmother who was well-known for her baking and cooking, especially her dumplings, pickled eggs and cabbage rolls.  She also had a talent for knitting and crocheting.  When she wasn’t busy taking care of her home and family, Iris enjoyed gardening, camping, dancing and playing cards.  (She would often take advantage of her advancing years to bend the rules of the latter.)  Iris was always quick to offer help and support to her family, friends and community.  Over the years, she was a proud and active member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 19, Bellevue, the Maplevue Hall Association and the Bellevue Seniors’ Centre.

   Many words come to mind to describe Iris: intelligent, independent, determined, accepting and gracious to name but a few.  She also had a dry, very “British” sense of humour and was a jokester who knew how to throw a good fast butterball.  Iris meant so much to so many, and she leaves behind a legacy of precious memories.  She will be forever remembered with love and respect.            

   Left to mourn her passing and celebrate her life are her children, Judy Biafore, Larry (Debi) Ruzek, Brian (Marie) Ruzek, Richard (Bonnie) Ruzek and Holly (Bob) Gardiner; her grandchildren, Chad, Shonalie, Carly, Brandi, Kristopher, Ryan, Shelbey, Alycia, Kelsey, Jordan, Meghan, James and Mariah; her great grandchildren, Karson, Landen, Joey, Rosie, Lucca, Leonardo, Crimson, Carter, Cloe, Bryce, Korbin, Jaxon, Brie and Weston; her brother, David (Wendy) Garrett; as well as her extended family and many friends.

   She was predeceased be her husband, Rudolph “Rudy” Ruzek; her parents, Bert and Olive Garrett; her son, Roy Ruzek; her great granddaughter, Jacey Uphill; her brother, Roy Garrett; and her son-in-law, Carmen Biafore.

   The Funeral Service will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at Fantin’s Funeral Chapel (13461 – 20 Ave., Blairmore, AB) with Rev. Renso Castellarin officiating.  Immediately following the Funeral Service, interment will take place at the Hillcrest Union Cemetery, Hillcrest, AB, followed by a luncheon at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 19, Bellevue (2401 – 213 St., Bellevue, AB) hosted by the  Bellevue Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the York Creek Lodge Residents Association (PO Box 1050, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0).  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555

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