Ruth Ann Ramsey

Longtime Juneau resident Ruth Ramsey died Feb. 22, 2009, at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, following a prolonged illness. She was 62.

She was born on Feb. 3, 1947, in Midland, Mich., to Rebecca and Lyle Foster. She attended high school and college in San Diego, Calif., and moved to Juneau in 1978. She met Frank Ramsey when they were classmates in flight school. They were married on June 21, 1980, at the Shrine of St. Therese.

Over the years, Ruth became Frank's business partner, helping him run Channel Drilling Co. and a mini-storage unit facility. As business manager, she kept the books, set appointments and was the ever-friendly voice at the other end of the phone on which their many customers relied, her family said. Nearly everyone who met her immediately recognized her loving, caring nature and cheerful demeanor, they said. Ruth and Frank volunteered in the Big Brothers, Big Sisters program.

She is survived by her husband; many friends in Juneau and throughout Southeast Alaska; and relatives who live out of state.

A celebration of her life is scheduled from 5 to 9 p.m. March 28 at Smith Hall in Chapel by the Lake. Guests are invited to bring a potluck dish to share.