January 19, 1963 – April 24, 2012
It is with a sad heart that we announce the passing of Dr. Ruby Anne Commandeur. On Tuesday April 24, 2012, Ruby passed away suddenly of heart failure at her home in North Saanich, B.C. Ruby spent most of her childhood years growing up in Nelson, B.C., where she attended L.V. Rogers Secondary. Upon leaving high school, Ruby attended both the University of British Columbia and University of Victoria before heading to Toronto to complete her education at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. She received her Doctorate of Chiropractic in 1989. After graduation, she moved to Victoria B.C. where she began her practice, helping and healing patients for almost 15 years. She was a women who worked tirelessly to create space for kindness, compassion, understanding and empowerment in the lives of her family, friends, clients and community around her. Ruby was predeceased by her younger brother, George Allen Commandeur. Her light of wisdom, courage, strength and beauty will be deeply missed by her husband, Ivan Mishchenko; daughters, Nina and Kira; son, Robert; parents, George and Florida Commandeur; brothers, Victor (Laurilee), Leo (Debbie), Colin (Paula); sister, Jackie (Leonard); nieces and nephews, Sheena, Drew, Samantha, Maddison, MyKayla, Nicole, Cole, Grayson, Chloe, Adam, Ollie, Eirywinn and many close friends.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ruby’s memory to BC Children’s Hospital would be greatly appreciated. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
21 Responses
This is very late coming your way! I was away for several months when your most fantastic lady died. Talk about stupid, I was not even aware of her death until she was featured in the local rag the other day. She was a true lady and will always be remembered for her guts and beliefs! We will keep her in our hearts forever!
Hugs! Kenna
I am shocked this morning to see the death of Ruby published in CMCC’s trade journal Primary Contact. Ruby was a member of my graduating class of 1989, and therefore I spent 4 years with her. While I did not have an opportunity to become close, I knew her as a wonderful individual, always smiling and happy. I am so saddened with your family’s loss. I hope you find strength with time to recover, and I know you will always fondly remember and celebrate the life a what must have been a beautiful wife, mother, and daughter. Dr. Robert R. Burton BSc MEd DC FCCPOR(C) St. John’s NL
What an incrediable gifted spirit Ruby was to so many. Ruby and I shared so many laughs while she was working her magic on my not so easy to adjust body during our chiropractic session. I have know Ivan and Ruby for a long time now. There are no words for the loss that I know Ruby’s family and friends are feeling right now. Ivan my heart and prayers go out to you and your family.
I am so sorry for your loss. Ruby helped me and my daughters so much, we will always remember her smile and her helpful ways.
Ruby was a standout student of the CMCC class of 1989. I am blessed to have been in that group of 89’ers.
I am blessed but at the time I must say In that first year I was intimidated. I remember lining up at registration and activities during our initiation week, Ruby was so smart, articulate and confident, if that was the calibre of student , I wondered what I was getting myself into. She took a leadership roll in our class from early on and steadfast into our graduating year.
I am an admirer of her life, her commitment to family and the truly incredible accomplishments she has made. My heart goes out to you for your loss of such a precious soul.
My prayers to you
Jay
Ruby and I were best friends in Junior High and High School. I lost track of her, but heard of her many achievements. I am so sorry for the Commandeur Family and her husband and children. I have been flooded with memories of our times together, and have kept little notes we would pass to each other. I remember her as fun loving, thoughtful and sometimes a rascal – like me. She always amazed me at her ability to sew anything beautifully. My deepest sympathies for your broken hearts.
Therese
Ivan,
I was so shocked and saddened to hear this news. It is almost unimaginable that such a tragic thing should happen. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jill
Ivan, I was shocked and saddened to read about Ruby. I can’t imagine how challenging it must be for all of you right now – and although we haven’t been in touch very often over the years, I want to let you know that you and the kids are in my thoughts, prayers and in my heart.
Hugs,
Suzanne Bell
Sincere condolences to Ruby’s family,my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Sorry for your loss.
I am very saddened by the news and by the loss of such a wonderful person . I would like to send deeply heartfelt condolences to Ruby’s entire family. As a fellow chiropractor I knew Ruby over the years and admired her warmth, strength and bright light. She will be very much missed. May you find strength and peace in the loving thoughts of friends and family and may your dear memories carry you through .
My thoughts are with you all at this very difficult time
Donna