In loving memory of
Helena Ruth Niemi
February 12, 1924 - March 19, 2015
Our beloved Mother/Grandma Ruth, a faithful believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, left her earthly bounds peacefully in her sleep on March 19, 2015 at Enumclaw, Washington, where she had recently moved to be nearer to her children and grand children. While she had been navigating a period of declining health, she was still a bright and cheerful presence with everyone she encountered. She particularly enjoyed the love and support of her daughter, son, granddaughter, grandson and great grand children who were nearby.
Ruth was born in Turner, Oregon to James and Maude Bones, of the 7 Bones Children; she is the last to make the journey home. In 1942 she was married to Francis "Bill" Niemi, in Marion County, Oregon. In 1953 Ruth and Bill settled with their two children (Paula and Harold) in Oakridge, Oregon. The Niemi's were joined in the coming years by four more sons, Bill, George, Rodger, and Melvin, the Niemi children are now scattered across the west. The Niemi's were a spiritually centered family and active members of the First United Methodist Church of Oakridge.
Ruth was a devoted wife and mother, an accomplished artist, community enthusiast, but most of all a loving grandmother and great grandmother. In her life she did little for herself and everything for others, she lived and unselfish life and shared of herself to benefit of others.
Ruth's passing was preceded by her Parents and Siblings; Bill Niemi left this life in 1984 and her Great Granddaughter, Madison in 2009. She is loved and survived by her loving children and their spouses, grandchildren and great grandchildren, her loving companion for the past 23 years Douglas Sample, and scores of extended family and friends.
A brief Internment ceremony, will reunite her with Bill Niemi at the Willamette National Cemetery, in Portland, Oregon at 1:00 PM, Monday April 20, 2014, all who wish are welcome to attend. A Celebration of Ruth's life and memory will be held this summer, we hope to reunion and celebrate with the extended members of the Niemi and Bones families and the many friends and acquaintances who's lives were touched by Ruth's grace.