Obituary of Ruth Tymowski

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ruth Tymowski of Fredericton, New Brunswick, on July 6, 2025. Born on October 4, 1937, in Benoni, South Africa, she was the daughter of the late George and Susannah (Burke) Blackbeard. Ruth was a devoted mother, grandmother, friend, and an unapologetic lover of animals and beauty in all its forms.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Luke Tymowski of Calgary, Gabriela Tymowski-Gionet (Eric Gionet) of Fredericton, and Mark Tymowski (Deborah Bradley) of Ottawa; her grandchildren, Rebecca, Bridgette, Fiona, and Samantha, as well as a sister, Pansy Ellis, of Sabie, South Africa. Ruth will be especially missed by her faithful feline companion, Theodore, who rarely left her side, and waited at the door for her every return.

In addition to her parents, Ruth was predeceased by her brother, Norman Blackbeard, and sister, Sheila van den Berg.

Ruth often reflected that her deep love for animals was tied to her birthdate—October 4, the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals—now also celebrated as World Animal Day. Whether in South Africa, Namibia, Eldorado, Toronto, or Fredericton, she rescued, cared for, and deeply loved countless animals. Her compassion knew no bounds: she once tended to a fatally injured baboon on a riverbank in Botswana, regularly fed wild birds and orphaned wildlife, and even cooked what she considered “proper” meals for her grand-dogs. “Her heart was a sanctuary for every creature who entered it.”

A brilliant mind with a lively spirit, Ruth was a passionate bridge player, playing in-person and online almost daily for decades. The logic and rhythm of the game brought her joy, and her competitive spark never faded.

She found immense pleasure in flowers—both receiving them and growing them. Her homes in Africa and Canada bloomed with beautiful gardens, and a fresh bouquet never failed to bring a smile to her face. Ruth was also a voracious reader. Books were a constant presence in her life, stacked on nightstands and shelves—each offering a new world to explore. She was a gold star member of every library and bookshop in her community. The Globe and Mail’s annual giant crossword puzzle was a favourite.

Ruth also loved to bake. Her strawberry cake, "tipsy tart", and lemon pudding were family favourites. She passed down the tradition of baking rusks to her children, a cherished recipe from her South African roots.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Timothy Snell, Ruth’s longtime family physician, whose steady compassion, patience, and exceptional care over two decades mean more than words could ever express. We are also deeply grateful to Dr. Leighton Carter in the Emergency Department at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital for his kindness, professionalism, and clinical astuteness. Special thanks as well to the dedicated nursing staff on Unit 4A at the Georges L. Dumont Hospital, for their support and responsiveness during an incredibly difficult time.

Ruth’s legacy is one of compassion, curiosity, and care. She will be remembered for her sharp wit, fierce intelligence, deep love for her family, and the tenderness she extended to all creatures—great and small.

A celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at a later date. For those who wish, donations may be made in her memory to Dunroamin’ Stray and Rescue, or the Atlantic Wildlife Institute.

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.”

— Anatole France