Ruth Ellen Hotchkiss (nee Noakes)
December 24, 1933- July 30, 2026
It is with hearts filled with both sorrow and gratitude for a life well lived that the family of Ruth Ellen Hotchkiss (Noakes) announce her peaceful passing on July 30, 2026, at the age of 92. Ruth was surrounded by the love of her family and friends during her final days and received compassionate care from the staff at Cambridge Memorial Hospital.
Ruth is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 58 years, Walter Lee Hotchkiss of Cambridge, Ontario; her daughter, Nancy Crawford (Darren); her cherished grandchildren, Hannah, Emily, Sarah, and David Crawford, all of Fergus, Ontario. She is also survived by her dear sister, Pat Lunn (Bob); as well as her sister-in-law, Arlene Noakes all of Brantford.
Ruth was predeceased by her parents, Albert and Blanche Noakes; her sisters, Margaret Foster (Stan) and Evelyn Amos (Ed); her brother, Ron Noakes; and, most recently, her beloved son, Rodney Lee Hotchkiss.
Born and raised in Brantford, Ontario, Ruth grew up in a Christian home and remained a faithful, lifelong member of the Salvation Army. As a teenager, she worked at the Salvation Army's Camp Selkirk, where she was among the first employees when the camp opened. After high school, she worked at Weston's Candy Factory and E.A. Gunther Company, both in Brantford. Once married, Ruth stayed home and devoted herself to raising her family, a role she treasured. When her children were older, she began working at the Salvation Army Family Services office, where she found great purpose and fulfillment in serving others.
Ruth's faith was the foundation of her life. She was actively involved in her church, helping with the Beaver program and cub camps, and other miscellaneous activities and events. She was a gifted pianist and vocalist and shared her love of music by singing in the Songster Brigade and performing many solos. Her love of singing never left her, as she continued to sing even during her final days in the hospital.
Beyond her church involvement, Ruth was a woman of many talents and creative gifts. She was an exceptional cook and baker, enjoyed her vegetable garden, canning preserves and lovingly welcomed family and friends around her table. She was also gifted at sewing, knitting and creating beautiful needlepoint projects. She loved playing Yahtzee, Phase 10, watching the Blue Jays, riding her bike among other things.
Anyone who knew Ruth, knew how deeply she loved her family and friends. She was immensely proud of her children and grandchildren and found great joy in their lives. Ruth lived with kindness, compassion, unwavering faith, and a wonderful sense of humour. She loved to laugh and brought warmth and joy wherever she went.
She will always be loved, remembered, and missed by so many.
Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service celebrating Ruth's life will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 1:30 pm at the Cambridge Salvation Army, 12 Shade St, Cambridge, Ontario.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to either The Cambridge Salvation Army Citadel, Cambridge Memorial Hospital, or a charity of your choice.
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