Barbara Gail Thompson Ruff

Barbara Gail Thompson Ruff went home to be with the Lord on April 17, 2010. Although she left us unexpectedly and will be missed, we take comfort in knowing she is with her Heavenly Father.

Barbara Gail was born on December 1, 1946 in Gary Indiana. Barbara Gail spent much of her childhood traveling the world with her family as her father was transferred to various military posts. Her first big adventure was a move to Shanghai, China when she was five months old. The family settled in Moses Lake where Barbara Gail graduated from Moses Lake High School in 1964.

Barbara Gail married Harvey Ruff in 1965 and had two daughters, Lori and Lisa. Although, Harvey and Barbara Gail amicably parted company in 1992 they remained supportive of all family members.

In 1966 Barbara Gail received her Associate in Science Degree from Big Bend Community College followed by an Associate in Applied Science Degree from Big Bend Community College in 1976. Barbara Gail completed the Practical Nursing program through Big Bend Community College in 1976. In 1985 she received an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Nursing from Columbia Basin College.

Barbara Gail followed in the footsteps of her mother and aunt by becoming a nurse. As a nurse, Barbara Gail worked many years in nursing homes in Moses Lake, where she loved working with geriatric patients. After her nursing career ended, Barbara Gail began a career teaching water aerobics for Dr. Diablos. She continued this on a part time basis up to the time the pool closed. Most recently Barbara Gail has worked for Walmart as a greeter. Barbara Gail just celebrated her 5th years with Walmart in March.

Although she did not serve in the military herself, she was very proud of the service provided by her parents Murray and Genevieve and was active with the American Legion Auxiliary. She was also active with AARP and the United Methodist church. She had a servant’s heart and liked to help wherever she could. In August you could find Barbara Gail volunteering at the fair in the Arts & Crafts building and the AARP booth.

Barbara Gail also took great pleasure in watching Mariner baseball often recording the games to watch when she got off work. She shared a garden with her neighbors, Rex and Tammy, and loved to tell the tales of the wild squash that took over the garden and the neighborhood squirrel scampering around. The garden is planted and we will think of her at harvest time.

Barbara Gail is survived by: her children, Lori Ruff of Medical Lake, WA and Lisa Ruff of Yakima, WA; brothers Dan (Marilyn) Thompson of Camarillo, CA, Gary (Kay) Thompson of Kimberly, WI, and John (Linda) Thompson of Denver, NC; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family is grateful for the love and support shown from so many people. We know you will miss her as much as we will.

A memorial service will be held Friday, April 30, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church with fellowship time to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the United Methodist church or the American Legion Auxiliary.