Ruth Tsubota

Dear Tsubota Family,
My mom, Jo Kezer and your mom, Ruth were good friends years ago when your family lived in Redwood City. They were both nurses at Sequoia Hospital.
My sisters and I were all little kids when our families would visit each other. I loved going to ‘Ruth’s house.’ There was always so much happy activity going on! Ruth always had sewing and crafts around her home. I believe our moms sewed together. I know they made doll clothes! I remember their visits were full of laughter.
I do not remember when your family left Redwood City, but I do remember my mom being sad about that. They stayed in touch throughout the years. My mom always saved the Tsubota family newsletter from Christmastime so we could be sure to see it when we would come home with our families. There was always an adventure to be shared!
Such kind, wonderful people, Ruth and Mas. And they were blessed with a loving family❤️

When I think of my mom so many memories come to mind. My mom always made time for family, friends, relatives and even those she just met. If there was a need to be met, she would act upon it immediately to help. My kids were the fortunate recipients of one-of-a-kind costumes which she sewed my hand. My mom was amazing in her ability to remember names and specific details about others and she earnestly prayed for their concerns. Mom's love and genuine concern for others was evident and appreciated by all.

My mom was generous with all that she had and God used her to bless others. Her impact on others was overwhelming. Friends, family, relatives and neighbors would go out of their way to deliver her favorite foods or spend a moment with her.

Thanks mom for living a life for Christ and for giving us a blueprint for living! I am grateful for you and I will miss you!

First off, thank you to the Tsubota family for sharing Baachan with me, and for letting me be an adopted granddaughter. Having Baachan as my local grandma was an immense privilege that I will forever treasure. I believe that God placed her in my life to be an example of what it means to be a loving and caring person with both your words and your actions (and that you can be funny while doing so).

Baachan was always a part of my life from watching me when I was a toddler, to being my first Sunday School teacher, to also being kind enough to be my grandparent when my elementary class hosted a grandparents’ day event. I appreciated that even though she had probably already spent many years walking around classrooms and looking at her other grandchildren’s amazing projects, she was still willing to come to mine. It was special to have someone who loved and knew me the way a grandparent does.

I really admired Baachan for her mastery of all the things I call “movie Grandma” skills, from knitting and sewing, to cooking and making umeboshi. One time as a kid, Baachan taught me how to knit. I never actually progressed beyond the portion she started off for me because I was very unskilled and would constantly knit and unravel my portion. Nevertheless, because of this experience, every once in a while I consider trying to start knitting again. Of course, one of Baachan’s greatest Grandma skills was making umeboshi and takuan. Growing up Baachan would give us our yearly jars and sometimes we were even invited to participate in putting together the umeboshi ingredients. When I was at college, I realized that Baachan’s umeboshi was tastier and more plentiful than anything I could manage to find at the local Asian market, which was also an inconvenient bus ride away. Plus, my favorite part of Baachan’s umeboshi were the shiso leaves, and imagine my horror when I went to the stores and their umeboshi mainly dried out containers of just plums (no shiso leaves and no extra sour plum sauce).

Throughout the years I would send Baachan thank you and the occasional holiday cards. Baachan would often write back giving me updates about her grandchildren like who was studying where, who was getting married, and who was having kids. It amazed me that she could remember all those things about everyone, and I could feel the love and pride that she had for her family. She of course also told me about how she was praying for me to find a nice husband. I told her that if she’s praying for it, then God just might decide to make a miracle happen.

Even when Baachan’s physical health, and spirit were a little broken, she would always find a way to bring everything back to God and all the things she was thankful for. In my selfishness, I would often ask her to hang in there because sometimes the world doesn’t seem to have enough good people, especially when Baachan is worth at least 50 good people. But in seeing all of you together, I see her same love for people, generosity with food and time, and humor. Thank you again for being such loving people to myself and my family, and for most of all, sharing Baachan (and your photo wall) with me.

Dear Auntie Ruth,

I miss you. Your funny, matter-of-fact way of speaking always made me smile and laugh, but it was your deeper qualities that left the biggest mark on my life - your unwavering strength of character, steadfast faith, and your generous, supportive spirit. You touched so many lives, including mine.

I'll never forget when I failed my nursing boards. I was devastated. But then I talked with you, and without hesitation, you invited me over to help me study so I could try again. That act of kindness has stayed with me all these years.

You were one of my mom’s favorite people. I can still picture the two of you sitting on the couch, laughing and whispering like schoolgirls. You shared something special - a bond built on trust, love, and understanding. I know she always felt safe with you, and you with her.

When my mom was growing older- she longed to be with Jesus. I know you did, too. I have no doubt He welcomed you with open arms...I imagine my mom wasn't far behind, smiling as she joined you.

I love you, Auntie Ruth.

Reading these reflections and remembrances have brought many tears to my eyes. Thanks you everyone! Below is what I had the privilege of sharing at the memorial service.
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Our family moved to Thailand when I was four years old. One of my earliest memories was on the plane on the way to Thailand. My parents created a home for us in Thailand, and here in the US my home was my Bachan’s house.
We first came back to the US when I was 8. We would live at Bachan and Jichan’s house between visiting churches. I remember thinking that America was amazing. It was the land of delicious cereal, like CInnamon Toast Crunch, Taco Bell, and cable TV. And a big part of that was coming to my Bachan’s house. My uncles and aunts would visit and we would go to the library or play along the slope in the backyard, affectionately called the “ravine.”

I wouldn’t have known how to say this at 8, but Bachan’s house was home, even though I hadn’t lived there before that summer. And now I know I was experiencing something that was true for my Bachan with all people. She had the gift of hospitality, of welcoming the stranger as we say in the Christian faith, knowing that every person you meet is made in the image of God and is thus worth honoring and welcoming. Bachan had the gift of extending herself to make space for almost anyone. She regularly welcomed our friends, and would ask after them years later remembering details from their lives. She knew, as my sister Naomi reflected, how inviting everyone to the kitchen table creates a space for stories to be told and life to be shared. Life is shared through small acts of kindness and a listening ear.

As I got older my interactions with Bachan grew with me. I saw how she was kind, a woman of deep prayer, competitive, and purposeful. I couldn’t for the life of me keep up with her, she was always on to the next thing to do. She would take care of her friends who were sick, watch us grandkids, and help us where we needed it. In the summer of 2001 I came back to find a summer job and we drove all over looking for job openings. I ended up working odd jobs for family members, but Bachan and I would always talk about how much I wanted to work at Food4Less and how I almost ended up at Burger King. That same summer was when my cousin Paula passed away and I watched Bachan as she navigated outliving one of her grandchildren.

During college Bachan’s address was my home address. In the summer and winter break I would hop on Amtrak or get a ride from a friend to come home. Bachan white knuckled her way through me learning how to drive, holding on to the assist bar of the passenger seat like her life depended on it. And years later, when I got married and then had kids she welcomed my wife Sarah into the family and my kids as well.

Bachan loved her grand and great-grand children. She was faithful to send us all birthday cards every year and every Christmas a stocking was hung for every single grand and great grand child. My daughter Abbie happens to have the same birthday as Bachan and so on the years we come up to the Bay for Thanksgiving we will do a joint birthday party. One year sarah got the idea of making toy horses for Abbie’s party and she and Bachan were up until the early morning sewing these horses together.

Bachan had begun to decline by this point and as we talked it was clear she was ready to be with Jesus. And she would tell us about her wrestling with God about why she was still with us. When my sister bethany was talking with her, over two years ago Bachan told her, “You know my faith has been challenged a lot more in my old age. It’s hard dragging this old body around. I keep praying that Jesus will take me, but I guess he still has something here for me. I don’t know what. I have to depend on him every day.” She had a deep sense of purpose for her life. She was always seeking God for what her call was. And so she would pray, she would pray for us grand kids, for our spiritual walk, for our families. Bachan was always living a life overflowing with love for others.

An enduring image of Bachan is of her working in the backyard humming words from a hymn. Two lines stick out to me at this time. One is from the song we just sang, “i don’t know about tomorrow, I just live from day to day.” And the other was “Because He lives I can face tomorrow.” This was a throughline in her life. Her faith in Jesus allowed her to live into each day, doing what needed to be done, serving whomever was in front of her, and seeking to love Jesus and others.

After years and years of serving others, her kids, grandkids, great grandkids, neighbors and friends, she is now with the Lord. And I’m sure Jesus came up to her, with open arms and said, “welcome home.”

Being the youngest, I didn’t get to spend much time with her, but when I did, it was always filled with laughter and fun. Her craziness and playfulness never stopped even as she continued to age. Her ability to persevere through life and health struggles and stay faithful to God was constantly inspiring. Nearing the end of her life I remember sitting down at the dinner table, and Aunt Karen asked what she wanted to eat. Bachan replied with what she wanted, Aunt Karen replying, “We don’t have that mom.” Bachan then turned to me with a mischievous smile, and whispered, “I know”.

Mrs. Tsubota was matriarch of one of the greatest families I have ever known. May her memory be a blessing. xoxo Laurie

Blessings in Christ to Ruth’s dear family and friends in her departure to Eternal Life.
Though I did not know Ruth personally, she blessed me in two significant ways.
First she gave us her sweet daughter Naomi as a dear friend over many decades along with husband, Todd.
Secondly Ruth blessed Miss A. W. Johnson, the founder of Bible Study Fellowship (BSF which is now a world-wide Bible study), many decades ago. At that time the main BSF office was located in Carmel, CA. I had attended a conference in southern CA where Miss Johnson spoke. She shared about a faithful BSF class member in Walnut Creek who had a large family, worked a night shift, and made sure she attended her BSF class each week. I immediately thought, “Is she talking about Naomi’s mom?” …… and it turned out she was talking about Ruth Tsubota!!!

Actually we didn't know Bachan at first. Karen and Carl were one of the first families to welcome us to Bangkok and ICS. I remember Karen's hospitality and warmth welcoming us with open arms. Later we met Janice and Mike when they moved to Bangkok from Laos. When our youngest, Lani, returned to the US and attended St Mary's College, Janice and Mike adopted Lani into their family from her freshman year and of course she met grandma and became one of her many grandchildren. When we got to know Bachan, we could see her influence and impact on Karen and Janice's lives. Her quick wit, humor generosity and hospitality "open heart open home" she knew how to make everyone feel welcomed and loved.
We remember her with great love and gratitude for a life well lived for Jesus. We look forward to reunion one day with you Ruth!

Dearest Ruth,

Although I have never met you in person, I have been blessed with the gift of praying for you through Naomi’s Bible Study. But even more, I have been able to love Naomi and your family through her daughters and in their friendship with each other. I have loved Kirstin as my own, for she and my daughter, Christin, were close friends from elementary school through college. I thank the Lord that they are kindred spirits who sharpen one another, loving each other even now with their husbands, Tyler and Paul. Naomi’s husband, Todd, was also my brother’s dear friend. He would call me to tell me he was really concerned my brother would not make it into heaven. But Todd knows Mike loves and lives his life for Jesus. Todd was very instrumental in leading my brother to Jesus. I must also thank you for the way you taught Naomi as you made Umeboshi. My mom, Irene, and all of us enjoyed your delicious umeboshi each year. So thank you for blessing us. And as grace begets grace, thank you for your life. We live each day, in the hope we have “to go where you go... as we meet in heaven. Jesus is so good to us, and His LOVE endures forever and ever.

Looking forward to meeting you,
Joyce

When I think of Auntie Ruth, I remember her as my mother’s strong and vibrant older sister who loved sharing her zest for life. When I was around seven, she taught me how to tap dance and make jams for canning. Throughout the years she always reached out for me and my brother, Nathan, to visit her. She was very generous with her time and finances, and my mother loved and respected her greatly.

Much love, Miriam

Growing up in a big family, my memories of my mom revolved around church activities, sports and visiting relatives in Fresno. My mom was known as our unofficial “Medical Advice Nurse “in the neighborhood. I remember how everyone and their brother would call her to seek medical counsel.
One of my most memorable moments is when my mom, sister, Karen, and I went to Mexico for a church outreach program. At the time, my relationship with my mom was tense because as a 17 year old, I thought I knew more than she did. That trip really open my eyes to the joys and suffering of the Mexican people. It also strengthen my relationship with my mom. I saw in her a woman who was not afraid to share about Jesus and how she was eager to help and pray for our team and the people we served.
Mom’s last few weeks of her life was hard to see such a strong and energetic lady become so weak and frail. One thing she made known to all was her desire to go to Heaven and see Jesus. As she lay in bed, she still prayed for others and sang hymnals as best she could. One of her favorite songs was, “ I Don’t Know About Tomorrow”. She used to sing to anyone around, “ I Don’t know about Tomorrow, I just live from day to day…Many things about tomorrow, I don’t seem to understand: But I know who holds tomorrow, and I know who holds my hand.” I going to miss my mom, but I know she is with her Jesus now and she is holding His hand. Amen

Bachan, I miss you so much. ❤️
It’s still hard for me to accept that you’re not here with us anymore. You’ve been my hero and one of my best friends.

I’ve so admired the ways you lived your life with faithful, feisty, Christ-filled love and joy, but also brave authenticity. In one moment you’d say something witty or goofy that’d make us laugh til we cry (or pee ourselves 😂), and a moment later you’d be whistling hymns and then sharing about something God was teaching you .

You were also a master gardener—of flowers, fruit, family and faith. It’s like you had a superpower. Whatever you touched would grow and thrive: Sweet pea flowers (which we’d pick daily and put in vases around the house), chiso (for making umeboshi), tomatoes (for salsa), zucchini (for okazu), kaki persimmons (to be dried and distributed), but also the lives of countless kids, grandkids, friends, neighbors, and strangers.

Somehow, even with 8 kids, 21 grandkids, and 16 great grandkids, you always made space for others to be included as part of the family (and months or years later you’d still remember the names of our friends and things they shared!). Not only did you feed and serve anyone who walked through the front door of your home, but you also welcomed people into your heart. You were always so intentional about investing in the relationships God put in your life. And you’d pray for them—frequently and fervently—to know the love of Jesus more and more. Even in the last time we prayed together a couple months back you said, “Lord, I can’t hear anymore but you still hear us”.

Bachan, your prayers have sustained me more than you know. Your home has been my safe place, but it’s also been the most consistent “home” space I’ve had for most of my life (as I grew up between Thailand and the US).

I pray that as I keep “growing up”, God makes me more like you. You’ve shown me that following Christ looks like deep friendship with Jesus, radical servant-hearted hospitality and prayerful dependence. But you’ve also shown me how to choose resilient joy and hope in the midst of hardship.

Almost exactly two years ago you told me,
“When I go to heaven, I’ll sit on the wheelchair and wait for you” (9/4/23)

I look forward to that day with eager expectation ☺️ but I don’t think you’ll be in a wheelchair, I imagine you’ll be walking and leaping and praising God!

I love you so much ❤️

>>Some of my favorite Bachan moments<<

One day when we were studying Psalm 27, I asked, “What makes you anxious Bachan?” She replied, “Planning trips and things...But the Lord helps me get my legs in my pants, so I will not be anxious.” Then we both broke out in laughter.

“Whew I’m SOB!” Bachan remarked. We looked at her aghast, “What did you say?!”
She clarified, “SOB! Short of breath!”

“I can’t think!” Bachan paused dramatically and then declared, “I need a marshmallow.”

During one of our many sessions of making jam she complained, “This damn jam! Oops. I mean darn….I have a speech impediment”

When Bachan hurt her ribs and was in recovery she informed us, “don’t respond to me if you hear me howl. I’m having a talk with the coyotes”

After helping her out with her eyedrops for her glaucoma I asked her, “Hey bachan do I look more beautiful?” She shot back, “you look gorgeous—I must be sick!”

During a family gathering at Auntie Naomi’s, I went over to sit by Bachan and she said, “I thought you might’ve forgotten about your old friend.” And then like bachan does, she tossed me some nuggets of wisdom. “You know my faith has been challenged a lot more in my old age. It’s hard dragging this old body around. I keep praying that Jesus will take me, but I guess he still has something here for me. I don’t know what. I have to depend on him every day”. (6/24/23)

Well Bachan, Jesus has finally brought you home! ❤️ love you lots

I was deeply saddened to hear of Aunt Ruth’s passing, and I would like to express my sincere condolences and share my memories with all of you.

The first time I met Aunt Ruth was in 1978, when I was still in elementary school. It was during her trip to Japan with Uncle Masao. Aunt Ruth’s mother, Naomi-san, was the elder sister of my grandmother, Etsu, with whom our family lived at the time. Out of the thirteen siblings (eight sons and five daughters), Naomi-san was the sixth, and Etsu was the ninth. I remember my grandmother telling me that Naomi-san and Etsu most resembled each other among the sisters.

In the summer of 1987, when I was twenty, I was fortunate to visit Aunt Ruth’s home in San Francisco with my parents. Later, during 1998–1999, my husband and I lived in Berkeley for a year due to his work. During that time, we were often warmly welcomed at Aunt Ruth’s family gatherings. We shared meals together, and I enjoyed playing cards with Naomi & Todd, Emiko, and everyone else. While my mother was staying with us in Berkeley, we even celebrated Uncle Masao’s birthday together at our home, and they kindly took us on a tour of Monterey and Carmel. These remain precious memories that I treasure deeply.

In the summer of 2009, I visited again with my husband and two sons, and we were graciously welcomed at Dr. Baker’s home. On every visit, Aunt Ruth welcomed us with such warmth that I felt completely at home, so much so that I never wanted to leave. In a foreign country, where I often felt uncertain, Aunt Ruth’s smile, kindness, and a few words in Japanese comforted me more than I can express. The precious memories I shared with her and the family will remain treasures in my heart forever.

I was also touched by the way Aunt Ruth’s family cared for her together with such love and unity. In the Christmas cards I received from her, I loved seeing the family circle expand each year with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and in the photos it looked like one big family tree spreading out. Figuring out who was who was like a fun challenge for me, and it became one of my annual joys.

I believe that seeing all of you united in love and must have been one of Aunt Ruth’s greatest joys. Her love and faith will continue to live on in each of you and will remain a source of strength that binds your family together. I pray from the bottom of my heart that God's comfort and peace may abundantly rest upon all of your family.

Janice talked about our cheer-leading mom. As I left for Thailand in 1988, mom and dad supported us as we took their only grandchildren (at that time) across the world away from them. They welcomed us back into their home countless times on homestays and walked with us through the highs and lows of our lives these past years. As I left again for a trip back to Thailand in October 2024, I wrote this to her as I left.
Hey mom, I know you didn’t get the choice of who would be with you on this last leg of your journey, so I appreciate your thankful spirit and your kindness as we journey together in this season.
I know you feel badly about my being your caregiver but I want to tell you again that it is my pleasure to be here, doing what I’m doing, right now with you. I sometimes think of how you took care of me when I had asthma, sometimes not sleeping because your wayward daughter played on the playground during hay fever season and I (and you) paid the consequences that evening. I think of the pain I caused you when I got sick that first year of teaching, and then had a relapse because I jumped into things too quickly. Again, my actions caused you and dad a lot of stress. Thank you for never throwing it back in my face…
I wonder if you ever think of why I’m the one on time and Carl is the late one in our marriage. As a child, we Tsubota girls were forever looking for caps, pins, ties for Girl Scout ceremonies, which inevitably made us late for things (including church on Sundays.) I remember one Juliette Lowe program, which you loved to go to, and many other troops gathered together for that event. Again, we were late, and you pushed us through the door of the auditorium so we could join our scout troops and you had to wait outside because there were no more seats. I remember the shame we all felt because you were crying when we walked with you to the car when it was over. I think after that event, I determined not to be late again, if I could help it. I never wanted to make you cry again because of our irresponsibility. Of course, I might have taken it too far. Now, my husband thinks I’m a time Nazi…(haha)
Mom, I guess what I’m trying to tell you is that if it was ever about paying you back for all the care and love you gave me, I could never do it. I thank God that we live in his Kingdom of grace. I am just thankful that you are still here and I get the privilege of being with you. Please believe this.
Thanks for your blessing as I leave again for Thailand. You continue to be one of my best cheerleaders in life…and I’m blessed to have a mom like you. Love you mom, Karen

ルース・ツボタ様のご遺族の皆様へ

この度は、ルース様がご召天された由、心よりお悔やみ申し上げます。
お子様、お孫様、ひ孫様等、大勢のご家族に見守られ、心豊かに神の御許に
行かれたのですね。

信仰深く、慈愛に満ちたルース様は、生涯献身的なお働きをされ、
神と多くの人に愛され、今は愛するご夫君、正夫様と語り合っている
ことでしょう。そこに5年前に召天した私の夫唯一も、共にその輪に
入れて戴いていることと信じます。

私共夫婦にも、沢山のご厚情を戴きましたことを、心より感謝申し上げると
共に、ルース様の天での平安と、ご遺族の上に、神の豊かな御慰めを
心から、お祈り致します。

2025年9月4日
山鹿　幸子


To the Family of Mrs. Ruth Tsubota,

Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of Mrs. Ruth.
Surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, she has now peacefully returned to the presence of God.

A woman of deep faith and abundant love, Mrs. Ruth dedicated her life in service, and was cherished by both God and many people. I believe she is now joyfully reunited with her beloved husband, Masao. I also trust that my own husband, Yuichi, who was called to Heaven five years ago, has joined them in that blessed fellowship.

My husband and I were privileged to receive much kindness from Mrs. Ruth, for which I remain deeply grateful. I sincerely pray for her eternal peace in Heaven, and for God’s abundant comfort to be upon all her family.

With heartfelt sympathy,
September 4, 2025
Yukiko Yamaka

5-6 years ago, I had the pleasure of being Ruth’s swim buddy at Concord Pool. She LOVED to swim her laps and always felt so good afterward.
We went a handful of times and she enjoyed it so much.
I’m happy for those times together and being able to get to know one another.
I also was honored to make Jam with her in her kitchen! Yummy!
Thank you Ruth and I hope Heaven has a pool there for you to enjoy. 😉
Rest in peace and you will surely live on in ALL the hearts of your family and friend. 💙

The name Ruth, means friend, friendship, or compassionate friend. When I reflect on who Ruth Tsubota, was I am put in mind of the story of Ruth, from the Bible. The Ruth, of the Bible, was loyal, and had a steadfast commitment to her mother-in-law. Ruth Tsubota, embodied the above mentioned qualities. Ruth, was loving, kind, compassionate, and dearly loved her family. Ruth, loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and modeled by her soft spoken ways, and loving actions, a true follower of Jesus. Anytime I was privileged to be in Ruth's presence, it was evident by her countanance, the joy she felt whilst amoung her family. I count myself to have been truly blessed to have known this remarkable, and wonderful woman. May the peace of Christ be with all of you at this time.

I knew Ruth as Bachan because I was always hearing about her from the Groot and Jensen clans over here in Thailand! How privileged I was to hear the stories and see the love that everyone had for their Bachan!
Throughout the years, it was a pleasure to get to know Bachan through her visits over here and with the visits that I was able to make to Walnut Creek.
Her love for God and her family and for others was so evident. She always cared about my family and she always asked about my Mom's health and even gave gifts and suggestions to help my Mom! They never got to know each other here on earth, but it is very sweet that they both entered heaven this year.
Bachan was so kind to me when my life fell apart and she always offered me grace, love, support and prayers. She had the gift of hospitality and she welcomed my children around her table...even at holidays.
I saw her deep care for family members and friends and the way she interceded for them. My life was impacted by her love.
I'm praying for her children and all the family members who will be missing her daily. But, I know her prayers and influence live on in all of their lives. I wish I was gathered around the table to hear the stories that they must be telling as they remember her life!

I might not even be here today if it weren’t for Aunt Ruth.

Back in the 1950s, my father was a young, single professor at UC Davis, probably not thinking much about marriage or dating. Meanwhile, my mom had left Portland, Oregon, after graduating from Oregon State, and was working as a dietician at a hospital in San Francisco.

While I don’t know exactly how it happened, I’m pretty sure Aunt Ruth met my mother at church and arranged their first date, which was a basketball game at Cal Berkeley. Eventually, they married, and I came along a few years later.

Whenever we traveled to the Bay Area, my dad Joe always made it a point to stop by his sister’s home at Elena Court in Pleasant Hill—and, as I grew up, so did I.

Thank you, Aunt Ruth, for caring for your brother and, over the years, for looking out for his family as well.

I had the joy of meeting Ruth in the summer of 1985after completing Semester 1 of nursing school with Masako.i had heard so much about her from Masako funny stories of growing up with a mom who was a nurse, a role model, but mostly a woman of faith who believed in her Savior and the importance of prayerful intercession for others. I looked forward to meeting her and was surprised to see this powerful prayer warrior was a quiet, petite, soft spoken woman. I was reminded that “ the best things come in small packages!!”
This was true of Ruth. She has a compassionate heart, a servants insight as her letters to me would testify… and she knew Christs heart was with the poor in spirit, hence her alignment with those who reached the marginalized with good news, hope and acts of compassion. Jesus, your compassionate daughter has come home. Take good care of her. Her family and friends miss her dearly already

When I think of Auntie Ruth, the first thing that comes to mind is

Amazing.

Auntie Ruth exuded warmth and kindness and generosity.

Auntie Ruth was smart and resilient.

Auntie Ruth made anyone and everyone feel at home.

And made it look effortless.

Nobody was ever a trouble or a bother to Auntie Ruth.

She opened her door and arms to anyone who needed anything.

Auntie Ruth was selfless and genuinely cared about others’ well being before herself.

We know that heaven is a beautiful place, but we will still miss you, Auntie Ruth.

"Clothed with strength and dignity and laugh at the days to come". Proverbs 31:25
You are a Proverbs 31 woman in every way; a most wonderful example of faithful, steadfast love of Jesus.
I am thankful that I have had the honor to know you for most of my life. Your heart and home has always welcomed everyone who walked through your door - including this 100% Irish kid in Girl Scouts!
Thank you for your wisdom.
Thank you for your perspective and laughter.
Thank you for my precious friend, Karen.
Thank you for visiting my mom in the hospital that last week of her life.
Thank you, Mrs. Tsubota, for being you and reflecting Jesus so well in every way.
You are a treasure that will be deeply missed. Your legacy will on in many lives. Love, Theresa

Make a Joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into His presence with singing! Psalm 100:1

As gifted as mom was, she wasn’t known for her singing voice. It’s not that she was tone deaf, it’s that she lost it from years of yelling at us. Okay, not entirely true. But quietness was NOT the mark of the Tsubota household.
During our growing up years, Saturdays meant swim meets. Dad would either be timing or recording times behind the desk. But Mom, she would be the team’s chief cheerleader. She was on the sidelines yelling at the swimmers to go faster, kick harder! Some were amused by her, but others caught on and were yelling right alongside her. As per tradition, coaches and judges were thrown into the pool after a win, and mom was thrown in as well.
I’m not sure how she juggled our concerts, scouts, sports – but somehow she was involved in it all. The other kids always liked mom because she was fun, not just a supervising parent. One thing we didn’t want was to have her help us with our homework. She had a quick hand to ‘knock’ those math equations into our heads. I’m sure that as we took the tests, the teachers wondered why our heads twitched as we answered the equations.
I had the privilege of working on the same floor as Mom at Mt Diablo hospital. She was a nurse while I was a physical therapist. Patients and coworkers LOVED Ruthie! She would whistle down the hall and walk with that fast gait pattern that meant business.
Mom was always singing, or talking to her patients whether they could answer her or not. This was the case as she worked with one comatose patient. Mom would quote this poem to her (probably while she was changing a catheter) “Water, water everywhere, but not a drop to drink” (by Samuel Taylor Coleridge). One day as she started this ritual, “Water, water everywhere…” the patient awoke and finished saying, “…and not a drop to drink!” This caused no small stir in the ward and was one of mom’s treasured stories!
She took on being Bachan with the same enthusiasm and fervor of being mom. When I was in labor with Moki, mom fell off a ladder while getting baby equipment down from the attic. She broke her wrist. And that did not stop her. I can see her walking and singing in the back yard with Moki strapped to her in the carrier and her painful arm resting on her head.
The center and focus of Mom’s life was her faith. She prayed constantly for others, not only for them to be released FROM their problems and struggles, but also for them to be released TO the One who sustained her and brought joy to her life, that is Jesus.
She made a joyful noise to those around her by her life of giving, of listening, of helping; and so now, as she meets Jesus, I can imagine that her singing is a pure and perfect melody to His ears.