Our beloved mother and grandmother, Ruth Izakson, passed gently in her sleep in Spokane on Aug. 26.

In her 86 years, her warm heart led her to a career of caregiving as a registered nurse, nurturing of youngsters in Scouting, youth organizations and at her dinner table, which was famous for her wonderful cooking for anyone needing a family meal. After she retired, Mom organized a Visitor Corps for any patient in the massive Houston Medical Center who was there alone without any family.

She spent many years on Orcas with her grandson Joshua, daughter-in-law Carmen, and son Dubi Izakson, and made many wonderful friendships. She loved the natural beauty and wildlife which reminded her of her youth in Europe.

We were fortunate and thankful that both her sons and their families were able to spend a week with Mom before she passed. It was a blessing to have this precious time during which many memories were recounted and cherished.

Ruth Izakson was laid to rest next to her husband, Siegmund, in Spokane, where she lived in her last years and which was also the home of her son Jack and his family. Being given emergency leave from the Air Force, her grandson, 1st Lt. Joshua Izakson, was able to serve as a pallbearer, along with his father and uncle, to carry Mother to her resting place. People from Houston whose life had been touched deeply by Mom and considered her their “other mother” honored her by attending her funeral.

Mom will be greatly missed, but will live on forever in the warmth of our hearts.