Ruth Coleen Gilson

August 21, 2013, peacefully and with her family at home, after a swift and courageous fight against cancer, Ruth Gilson joined her awaiting loved ones in heaven. Imagine the celebration occurring there! She was born October 3, 1936 to Fay and Faye Addie Bacon in Iowa city, Iowa. She had 3 brothers and 2 sisters that proceeded her in death. She was raised in Panora, graduating from Panora High School in 1954. Her parents were hard working, ethical people, instilling that in their children. In 1953 she met the love of her life and best friend, Marlin Gilson. They were married May 9, 1954. In 1954, they moved to Utah to begin their life of love and adventure together. When they moved to their first home, they were graced with amazing neighbors that quickly became family. The close knit group of the Ragland, Terkelson, Ames, Reese, Hullinger, and many others was formed and continues to this day. They had many amazing times camping, going on arrowhead quests, Christmas time bonfires, and countless other adventures. Together they had 2 daughters, Marla and Joann. Ruth was so proud to be the mother of her amazing Air Force member, Marla. Someone so committed to the care and protection of others. She loved being a devoted grandmother to her daughter Joann's children. Having Nik help her in the backyard, teaching Jordan to crawl, blowing bubbles, and creating beautiful memories with them over the years. She was so proud of them for their many accomplishments they both made during their years of growing up. She will continue to be amazed by the great man Nik has become and continues becoming, and will be on the sidelines, cheering Jordan on as she is cheering on others. We couldn't ask for a better angel to have on our side. She had a successful career working for the government as a Resource Adviser and Financial Manager at Hill Air Force Base. She retired in 1994. She loved bowling, playing softball for Coca Cola with her daughter and team-mates. She enjoyed camping and adventures with her husband, taking care of her home and yard, and being an active and influential part of her community. She and Marlin loved their winter times in Yuma they had enjoyed over the last 20 years. Card games, potlucks and hot dog roasting with her fellow snowbirds was part of what made her life so wonderful and complete. Love and thanks to their many friends across the states, there are too many to name, but you are with us in our hearts and thoughts. She and Marlin were drivers for Mountain West Drivers for many years and loved the friendships she formed. She loved the gatherings with those friends, and was always grateful for the ones she had in her corner. Most of all, Ruth loved caring for people. She never hesitated to help others in any way she could. From being the 'first time' babysitter, giving free driving lessons other parents might have been afraid to, buying groceries (you know how she was about people having food), showing up to support her loved ones in need, and always helping others on their journey through life. Never failing to bring joy and Kleenex. She was the greatest expression of how to love others, how to show up and help, how to put in a good day of hard work. She volunteered for Hospice and spent many days of selfless services to others. Loving and caring for others was one of her greatest joys, and she couldn't have set a better example for us. She is survived by her husband, Marlin; daughters, Marla and JoAnn; adored grandchildren, Nikolas and Jordan; her nieces and nephews; and adopted at heart, Ragland and Terkelson families, and many other cherished loved ones. There are so many to name, we don't know where to start. You all know who you are, thanks for responding to those calls. Her Family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Carl Grey and his staff, Dr. David Goff, the staff at Mckay Dee Hospital, the Ogden City Fire Department and the amazing people with Intermountain Homecare Hospice A small service will be held Saturday, August 24, 2013 at Aarons Mortuary, located at 496 24th Street in Ogden, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. For her loved ones unable to attend, please set a time that is best for yourselves and have a celebration in honor of this amazing woman. In lieu of flowers please make donations to any Hospice location.