Ruth Olivia Barske, 86, a strong, spunky, funny, wise, caring, loving, tell you how it is kind of woman died peacefully at home surrounded  her family on Saturday, January 28, 2017. "Big Mama" (as known by her great grandchildren) will be remembered for her fierce love of her family.

She was also loved for teaching each of her grandchildren how to swim and for endlessly rocking her great grandbabies. Ruth and Bill's home was the heart of the family where holidays were celebrated and many Summer days were spent by the pool. Their doors were always open to their many nieces and nephews who referred to them as their second Mom and Dad.

Ruth was born November 13, 1930 in North Kingstown and was a longtime resident before recently moving to Wakefield with her daughter, Becky.

Ruth's spirit will be carried on by her 4 children, 9 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends which are too numerous to list, but not forgotten. She is survived by her children William C. Barske, Jr. and his wife Judith Barske of Exeter, her daughter Becky L. Blaine and her husband Richard T. Blaine Jr. of Wakefield, her daughter Cynthia Ratcliffe of West Warwick, and her son Kevin J. Barske and his wife Kathryn Barske of North Kingstown.

Ruth is predeceased by the love of her life and husband of 55 years, William C. Barske, Sr. and her son, Eric K. Barske. Ruth is also predeceased by her parents Hiram B. and Clara F. Matteson, Sr. and brother Hiram Matterson, Jr.

Funeral services will be held at the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in Exeter on Thursday, February 2, 2017 at 1:00 pm. Relatives & friends are asked to meet at the administration building parking lot at 12:45 pm.  For further information please contact THE CRANSTON-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME of WICKFORD.

Per Ruth's wishes in lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hope Hospice Care of RI.

 

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