We are broken-hearted to announce the passing of our beloved mother, Ruth Margaret Shorting (nee Wilson) on the 10th of May 2023.

She will never be forgotten by her children Patty (Steven), Allen (Liz), Linda (Sherry), Donna, Paul (Denice) and grandchildren Elise, Nathan, Beatrice, Tamiya, Hannah, Isabelle, Taylor and Luke.

Mum was a beautiful, strong-willed, independent and caring woman who loved her family fiercely. Ruth was a mother to everyone who was famous for her homemade buns and spaghetti and meatballs. She loved lunching with friends and family.

Mum will be happy to be reunited with her parents Jack & Mae and siblings Jean, Murray & Elaine. She & Elaine will be together again laughing and singing. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the BC Cancer Agency.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens

www.mccallgardens.com

  • Lynn Koett

    My name is Lynn and I am one of the ladies that belong to the Birthday lunch club. Your Mom was a very treasured member of our group. Your Mom was a very sweet and kind lady. She always had a story to share and always had a smile on her beautiful face. Even when times seemed dark she did not let it get her down. I’m glad you posted that photo of your Mom with the lei around her neck. She loved her trip to Hawaii even though she ended having a heart event and having a stent put in. She didn’t give it a second thought and was grateful they did it right away when she was in Hawaii. Your Mom was like that. Always saw the good in everyone and everything. She was very thoughtful. I remember she always brought sweets for all of us to share when it was her birthday lunch celebration. We all loved your Mom. May she rest in Peace and may our Heavenly Father surround her family with peace. Thank you Linda for making the time to bring us her violets. It meant a lot to all of us. We will treasure them.
    RIP our special friend.

  • laura L foxgord

    Dear Patty, siblings and families, I am so sorry to hear that your mom has passed away. I have many fond memories of her. She had such a wonderful welcoming smile. It was a good thing that you had such a large house as it seems there was always an extra “kid” or two around and staying for a meal. The kitchen was always a hub of activity, baking, canning or meal prep for the family, and it seemed that she did a lot of driving us around. RIP

  • Marsha Clark (Williams)

    To Ruth’s Family…I am so sorry you lost such a precious Mom/Gramma. I will miss our telephone chats and so looked forward to the fall visits. Thank you, Donna for making those memories happen.
    I have known Ruth since grade one and also had lots of fun and laughs at the lunch in Nanaimo!
    Take care!
    Hugs!
    Marsha Clark (Williams)

  • Reg and Sue Smith

    Such a sweet picture of your cherished Mum. She will always be close by like an angel on your shoulders. Remember all the wonderful memories during this difficult time. Our hearts are thinking of you.

    Reg and Sue

  • Beverly Tyson

    I am very sorry for your loss. Although she was only in my life for a few years she remained in my heart forever. She was kind to me; I remember our family get togethers and many fun times with Ruth. Throughout the years we would bump into each other and always stop for a chat, she always remembered my children’s names and asked after Gary. I still can’t drive past her old house near UVIC without smiling and thinking of dinners there. You were all so lucky to have her in your lives, and she lucky to have you. She always loved you all so dearly.

    Rest well Ruth and enjoy this new adventure whatever it may be. Sing and laugh again. Xox

  • Karen Hoskyn

    I never met your mother, and wish I did. I love the comment that your mother was “strong willed” and ‘independent and caring woman”. I am not sure, but believe that Linda and I met when I was teaching nursing in Nanaimo. We both attended a conference in Calgary. I have tried to contact her many times and sadly think that the death of your mother may allow us to re-connect. Sadly, but also a gift. Blessings to you all as you grieve the loss of such an amazing woman.

  • Gord Taylor

    So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. She was one of the nicest ladies I ever knew. My favorite memories as a kid were hanging out at the house in Oak Bay with all the Shortings and having some of the famous home made baking. I remember her always being happy and I thought she had a great laugh.

  • Judy Beinder

    My condolences to your family. My memories of your Mom go back to Fruitvale days. Our Dad’s were farmers so we knew each other well. Also knew your Dad, Don. Most recent memory of your Mom was her joining me and my sisters and driving to Nanaimo for lunch with another childhood friend. We always had lots to talk about and lots and lots of laughter.

  • Barbara Witzke

    I’m still shocked this all happened so fast. So many good memories and even visits in Peachland. Thankyou Donna for that. She reminded me so much of my mom and now the whole family will be together. I so sad and will miss her greatly. God bless you all and give you guidance in the weeks ahead.

Leave Condolence

Type your condolence message into the box below and click "Submit". It may take up to 24 hours for it to appear. Your email address will not be published.

*

Search Website

ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR