Darken, Ruth Louise

Ruth Louise Darken, 91, of Blacksburg, died Wednesday, June 11, 2008, at her home. She was born September 1, 1916, in Portland, Mich.

She lived most of her adult life in Lansing, Mich., where she held various secretarial positions, including the Michigan State Library. Upon retirement she moved first to Norman, Okla., and then to Dundee, Fla., the latter for 16 years. She had resided off and on in Blacksburg, Va., moving here permanently in December 2001. She was a resident of Showalter Center in Warm Hearth from February 2002 to 2006.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Suzanne in 1972; by her husband of 67 years, Donald Darken, in 2002; and by all of her five siblings. S

he is survived by her daughter, Sally Bohland and her husband, Jim; her grandsons and wives, Jay and Sharon of Virginia Beach, and Jon and Cynthia of Roanoke; her great granddaughter, Isabella of Roanoke; and several nieces and a nephew. She was a member of Blacksburg United Methodist Church.

The family wishes to thank all their friends who have been so wonderful to Ruth during her years in Blacksburg. Special thanks go to Sue and Michael Johnson of Personal Care Services of Blacksburg, and their staff, Diana, Carolyn and Erin who provided incredible care and love during these last few years. The family also appreciates the care of Dr. Christine Jordan, MD. She was a wonderful friend, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 14, 2008, in the Blacksburg United Methodist Church with the Rev. Reggie Tuck officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Montgomery County Christmas Store, P.O. Box 221, Blacksburg, Va. 24063.

Arrangements by McCoy Funeral Home, Blacksburg, Va.