Ruth M. Wilson, 81, of Dunkirk passed away Sunday evening, June 11, 2017 at home. She was born on June 11, 1936 to parents Elmer and Victoria (Szczublewski) Burbee.
Ruth grew up in Dunkirk and graduated from St. Mary's in 1954. In her early twenties, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked for the Marine Corps. It was in Washington where she met her husband of 47 years, Omie Wilson, who was in the Air Force. Ruth followed Omie to Germany, where he was stationed, and they were married in May of 1964.
When Mr. Wilson was discharged from the Air Force, the couple returned to Dunkirk. Ruth worked full-time as a mother to her five young children. As they grew, Ruth began working for Holy Trinity Church, where she eventually began a career as the religion education director.
She was a member of Holy Trinity Church, where she served as a Eucharistic minister and dedicated her life to serving others.
Mrs. Wilson enjoyed camping, spending time with family, dancing and participating in community events.
Survivors include her children: one daughter, Denise (Joseph) Tiedemann of New Jersey and four sons, Patrick (Starla) Wilson of Dunkirk, Thomas (Sara) Wilson of Tennessee, Densil (Sheri) Wilson of Silver Creek and Kevin (Kristen) Wilson of White Plains; one sister, Pauline Burbee of Fredonia; one brother, David (Charlene) Burbee; 13 grandchildren, Jackie, Amanda, Brenee, Ryan, Anabel, Caleb, Ethan, Gabrielle, Curtis, Paul, Claire, Riley and Melanie; plus several great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Omie C. Wilson.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated Thursday, June 15 at 10:00 AM at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. Calling hours will be held Wednesday, June 14 from 2:00-4:00 PM and 7:00-9:00 PM at the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.
The family suggests memorial contributions in Ruth's honor to the Catholic Charities by contacting a local Catholic Church or visiting https://catholiccharitiesusa.org.
By the Observer
