Ruth Mae Whitley Stromness Gentner

August 2, 1922 - September 17, 2014
Ruth Mae Whitley Stromness Gentner
Service Date:
Sunday, September 21, 2014 2:00 PM
Service Location:
Starks Funeral Parlor
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Ruth Mae Whitley Stromness Gentner
"Ruthie"
1922 - 2014

 

Devoted Wife, Mom, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, Grandma, Great-Grandma, Great Great Grandma, and Friend left us on September 17th, 2014, at the age of 93.  Ruth was born on August 2nd, 1922, to Claude and Margot Whitley.

Ruth met Grant Stromness at the Nibley Park Ward as children and their true love lasted a lifetime. They married on July 11th, 1944 in the Logan LDS Temple and spent their first year in Fort Myers, Florida during World War II.  Returned home to Utah to raise three children.  Grant passed on March 31st 1988.  She was a 14 year widow, and spent her time as a crossing guard, golfing, bowling, travel, dancing and taking care of her grandkids, the loves of her life.  At age 79, she married a younger man Hyrum Gentner on January 28th, 2002 in Kauai, HI.  The very next day they golfed and she pared the first hole.

Mom was a caregiver to many.  She never met a person who did not become a friend.  Active in the PTA, Boys and Girl Scouts and President of the Willow Creek Ladies Association.  She was involved with American Legion Auxiliary for years and held many positions; the highlight was being the Director of Girls State.

She is survived by her husband Hyrum Gentner; two children Grant Hayes (Carolyn) Stromness Jr., Nan (Bruce) VanDyke; daughter-in-law Barbara Stromness; step-children Craig (Linda), Marc (Carol), Russ (Debbie) Gentner; 20 grandchildren; 19.5 great-grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.  Preceded in death by her son Brent David Stromness; parents; sister Margo; and brother Arnold.

Please join us in celebration of her life on Sunday, September 21st from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, where complimentary valet parking will be provided on the north side of the building.  Casual dress requested by Ruthie.  Graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, September 22nd at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 3401 S. Highland Dr., Salt Lake City.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.starksfuneral.com