Ruth Cantor (nee Cristall) April 9, 1930 – May 11, 2015. It is with great sadness that the family of Ruth Cantor announces the unexpected and sudden passing of their mother and grandmother.
Ruth was a beautiful, quiet, reserved and dignified woman who took great satisfaction having everything “in order” and being prepared for whatever urgency came into her personal and family’s lives. Her strong will and determination enabled Ruth to know what was best for her and her family until her last days. Gratefully and thankfully, Ruth was able to remain in her own home until just a few days before her passing.
Ruth passed away at the age of 85 after a very brief stay at the St. Boniface Hospital. She left this earth quietly, just as she would have wanted, with her family members present, in the early evening of May 11, 2015.
Ruth was born an identical twin in Brandon, Manitoba and spent her early years there as a child of parents who operated a family business. Later, she, along with her family, moved to Winnipeg where she spent the rest of her life. Ruth and her sister Eileen were known as the “Cristall Twins” and were inseparable throughout most of her life. It was not uncommon for the twins to frequently finish each other’s sentences when speaking.
Ruth is survived by her sister Eileen Greenberg, her daughter Nancy and her husband Bert Wiebe, grandchildren Jennifer and Cory Wiebe; and by her daughter Fran and her husband Julius Schellenberg, grandchildren Brent, Derek and Erica Schellenberg; as well as several nieces and nephews. Ruth was predeceased by her first husband Jack Nezon, second husband Eddie Cantor, and brothers Irving and Harry Cristall.
A graveside service was held on Thursday May 14, 2015 at the Rosh Pina Memorial Park.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic Services, the Victoria General Hospital Emergency Department, the St. Boniface Acute Care Surgery Service Intensive Care Unit, and the Palliative Care team. The family extends a special thank you to Dr. J. Park, Dr. S. Harms and staff of the St. Boniface Hospital who were there for Ruth and “her girls”.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Boniface Hospital Palliative Care Unit or to a charity of your choice.
Ruth will always be remembered for her infamous last words to most discussions – “And that’s it”.
