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INSLEY: Ruth Louise (Schwartz) of Exeter and formerly of Woodham

December 8, 2017 By Haskett Funeral Homes 49 Condolences

INSLEY: Ruth Louise (Schwartz) of Exeter and formerly of Woodham

Peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family at South Huron Hospital, on Friday, December 8, 2017, of Exeter formerly of Woodham in her 90th year.  Beloved wife of the late Edward (Ted) Insley (1997).  Dear mother of Karen Insley-Windsor of Huron Park and the late Murray Insley (Oct. 2017) and mother-in-law of Pauline Insley of Mt. Carmel.  Dear grandmother of Joshua and Adam Windsor; and Chad and Nicole Insley.  Dear sister of Doris Ohmayer of Crediton.  Also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and their families.  Predeceased by a brother Claire Schwartz and a brother-in-law Karl Ohmayer.  Ted and Ruth operated Insleyโ€™s General Store for over 28 years in Woodham. Ruth was an active member of the UCW for more than 50 years in Woodham and Exeter and spent 25 years as a member of Exeter United Church choir.  She volunteered at South Huron Hospital, was a member of the hospital auxiliary and a volunteer at the Exeter Villa. 

Friends may call at the Haskett Funeral Home, 370 William Street, Exeter (1 street west of Main) on Monday 3-5 and 7-9 PM where the funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 12th at 11AM with Rev. Laurie Oโ€™Leary officiating. Interment Crediton Cemetery.

Donations to the South Huron Hospital Foundation, the LHSF โ€“ Esophageal Cancer, or the Exeter United Church would be appreciated by the family.  

Offer Condolence for the family of INSLEY: Ruth Louise (Schwartz) of Exeter and formerly of Woodham

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Condolence Messages

  1. MARY PETERSON

    January 1, 2018 at 10:47 PM

    Karen Josh, and Adam,

    We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your mother and grandmother. She was a lovely, gentle soul who always had a kind word and a warm smile. Our sincere condolences to you at this difficult time.

    Mary, Rob and Jason Essery

  2. Amy Parsons

    December 18, 2017 at 8:30 PM

    I got to know Ruth when I worked at the Exeter Villa and she would come to volunteer her time to brighten the day of others. I always admired Ruth’s genuine concern and care for other people. Ruth was lovely lady, with a kind soul.
    My sympathies,

  3. Jayne Blackler

    December 17, 2017 at 9:19 PM

    Dear Karen and all the Insley family,
    My deepest sympathy on your mom’s passing. Please know you’re in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

  4. Helma Pederson

    December 17, 2017 at 11:03 AM

    To my Dearest friend Karen. I am so sorry for the passing of your precious mother Ruthy.
    To Josh and Adam, you two young men had a very incredible special grandmother and the bond and memories you had created with her you will be able to cherish forever.
    Karen I know how broken your heart is and if you could hear her talking you and I both know she would be saying โ€œ not to worry that Is is the best hands with Jesusโ€ Karen you have been the most loving , dedicated , caring, kind, compassionate, fun loving daughter any mother could only be so proud of. You and Ruthy were blessed with each other. Karen I hope you can find comfort now knowing she is in Jesus house , smiling, and telling everyone how blessed she was in giving birth and the joy her precious daughter Karen brought to her life on earth. I love you Laren and Iโ€™m so sorry for all your heartfelt sadnessโค๏ธ
    Karen , Josh and Adam you now have another special Angelโค๏ธ
    Love Helma

  5. Walter Langford

    December 12, 2017 at 5:09 PM

    I am so sorry to learn of Ruth’s passing. She was a lovely lady, and I have fond memories of the store in Woodham, and of her friendship with my mother when they both lived in Exeter. Her warmth and kindness will be missed by so many. Karen and family, I extend my deepest sympathies.

  6. Kirk Blackler

    December 11, 2017 at 10:13 PM

    Karen , Pauline and families
    So sorry to learn of Ruth’s passing. My sincere condolences. She was such a kind wonderful lady. She will be missed by many. Your all in my thoughts at this time.
    Kirk

  7. Cynthia & Gary Mallalieu and Family

    December 11, 2017 at 9:32 PM

    Dear Karen, What a pleasure to have known such a kind, gentle and loving soul. She was always interested in the happenings of the family and a pleasure to get a Christmas card and note from her. A visit with her was always enjoyable with her pleasant way and great smile. Many memories flood back of days in the Woodham community. May memories bring you comfort and the days ahead bring you peace and light. Sorry we could not be there but I know we will see each other sometime. Thinking of you with hugs.
    Cynthia ( Copeland ) & Gary Mallalieu, Aralynn & Raianna

  8. Jessie Brown

    December 11, 2017 at 8:48 AM

    Dear Karen & Family,
    My heart goes out to you and your family in this time of sorrow. My deepest condolences.

  9. Susan Riley

    December 10, 2017 at 10:14 PM

    Pauline and family…..thoughts and prayers go out to you! Sue Riley

  10. Glenda Waddell

    December 10, 2017 at 8:03 PM

    Karen and Family

    So sorry to hear of your loss.. I know you will have fond memories of the great times you spent with your MOM… Your were truly blessed..

    Glenda Paul & Zack Waddell

  11. Larry & Donna Shapton and Frances McNabb

    December 10, 2017 at 7:48 PM

    To the Insley Family…. Please accept our deepest sympathies during this sad time. Ruth and her beautiful smile and sweet nature will be missed by so many. My Mom, Frances, will miss her deeply at The Villa. They played cards together almost every evening and became very good friends. Our thoughts and prayers remain with you all… Most Sincerely, Larry and Donna Shapton as well as Frances McNabb

  12. Ann Zwaan

    December 10, 2017 at 4:58 PM

    To Karen and the Insley family,
    Our heartfelt sympathy with the passing of your dear mother and grandmother.
    Our girls remember going to the store with their babysitter,Marianne, and I believe there was usually a treat. Her loving smile and her kind heart made everyone feel so special!
    Later I met her in the Villa when I visited my Mom. She still had such a great smile and she loved to have a chat.
    May her memories be treasured in your heart and help you get through these difficult times. Fred and Ann Zwaan

  13. Audrey MacGregor and Family

    December 10, 2017 at 1:19 PM

    Our deepest sympathies to the family of Ruth. Since our mother came to live in the Villa, she was always a welcoming person. Her musical talents will be missed. We also appreciated her leadership in getting card games going.
    Audrey MacGregor and family.

  14. Lisa Loft (Hardy) and family

    December 10, 2017 at 12:16 PM

    Thinking about all the Insley family. Aunt P, Chad and Nicole, sending you hugs! Ruth was such a sweet lady. Remembering all the times as a kid when Uncle Murray used to take us to the store and we could get a box of smarties. Such a lovely lady will definitely be missed.

  15. Jenny Wareham

    December 10, 2017 at 12:42 AM

    Thinking of that lovely lady who greeted us with a warm welcome at the general store in Woodham. Mrs. Insley was a special part of the community.

  16. Julie Webb

    December 10, 2017 at 12:01 AM

    Karen and family,
    So much of growing up near Woodham revolved around our โ€œvisits to the storeโ€.
    I remember your Mom and Dad from the spending of my first allowance onward!
    In later years I was blessed to get a Christmas note from Ruth which told me all the doings. She was so kind and generous; something the world needs so much.
    Thinking of you and wishing you peace.

    Julie

  17. Kendra Craig

    December 9, 2017 at 2:41 PM

    My deepest sympathies to the Insley family. Ruth was a great lady whom always had a smile for everyone she met. May your many great memories console you in this time of loss.

  18. Pauline Robertsson

    December 9, 2017 at 2:30 PM

    Dear Karen i was sadden when the phone call came about Ruth’s passing . Will miss having a chat to get up dated on the happenings around Exeter . She sounded so good a short time ago when I called. You will have lots of good memories . Pauline

  19. Jim & LInda Dietrich

    December 9, 2017 at 1:05 PM

    Sincere sympathy to the Insley family, so sorry for your loss.

  20. Marion McCarter

    December 9, 2017 at 12:59 PM

    The Insley Families
    Thinking of you at this sad and difficult time. May her memories, of which you are blessed to have so many wonderful ones, become treasures that you will carry in
    your hearts forever as you journey forward. Deepest Sympathy.
    Marion (Thomson) McCarter

  21. Sue and George Wilson

    December 9, 2017 at 11:22 AM

    Karen, Josh, Adam, Pauline, Chad , Nicole and Doris, We send our heartfelt sympathy and love to all of you on Aunt Ruthโ€™s passing. You were a dedicated, loving daughter Karen. Your Mom was kind to everyone she met. Such a gentle soul. She was a wonderful Aunt to all of us. Very patient and non-judgmental. Cherish your precious memories. Murray and your parents are visiting in Heaven. My parents too. God Bless. Love you. Hugs and prayers.

  22. Nancy Wood

    December 9, 2017 at 11:21 AM

    So sorry for your loss. Sending thoughts and prayers your way may you find comfort in your memories

  23. Stan & Joan Francis

    December 9, 2017 at 10:17 AM

    Insley Family

    Our deepest sympathy to you on the passing of your Mother
    Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  24. Margaret Brintnell

    December 9, 2017 at 10:01 AM

    Karen & your boys,Doris, Kevin & All the family
    I extend my sympathy to all of you at this very sad & difficult time. Yes, the World has lost a wonderful, caring person who always found the good in everybody & everything. Karen I remember when your boys were little & how she liked to talk about them & be with them. Each of you will have a milestone of memories to share. Bless everyone of you.
    Margaret Brintnell

  25. Dave Frayne & Cathy Cade

    December 9, 2017 at 8:51 AM

    Sorry to learn of Ruth’s passing, she was a great friend of my mother and my aunt.

  26. Deborah Ford

    December 9, 2017 at 8:18 AM

    Dearest Karen and family, you have suffered Twofold in such a short time.
    Your mom was a wonderful person, dedicated in every way. I have so many lovely memories of her ….behind the counter in the store, always smiling, playing the piano during Sunday School and UCW. , helping in leadership whenever she could. All our “moms” of the day have been shining examples for me.
    We have been blessed for sure with their love and care.
    Deepest sympathy,
    Deb

  27. Kim Pinder

    December 9, 2017 at 4:27 AM

    I am so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. Such a lovely lady. You will miss her so much Karen. Thinking of you and your family.

  28. Stephanie Hazlewood

    December 8, 2017 at 11:03 PM

    Karen and family,
    I’m so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. As you know, I grew up with weekly and sometimes daily visits to “the store” which was many times a source of sharing our firsts with Ruth – whether it was the joy we expressed upon arriving after riding our bikes the first time to run an errand independently, or learning how to make change with her while buying licorice with our own money, she always greeted us with a smile and an ear for hearing what we’d been up to. She’s one of the women in our little community that I’ll never forget. Generous, kind, and always present in the moments she shared with me. As I recall Ruth I’m left with only smiles. My thoughts are with you and the family at this time. Take care.

  29. Julie Grimminck

    December 8, 2017 at 10:13 PM

    My condolences to you and your family. What a delight and pleasure it was to meet your mom. May the beautiful memories bring you comfort during this time.

  30. Rev, Paul Ross

    December 8, 2017 at 9:57 PM

    To Ruth’s familhy and friends,
    It was a privilege for me to be Ruth’s minister for twelve years and to sing with her in the church choir. I will always remember her bright smile, her positive outlook on all things and her practice of starting a conversation with me by saying, ” You know Paul ….” The last time I saw her we spoke of her beloved piano that she brought with her to the Villa. Whenever I hear that piano played, I will remember the lovely lady who owned and played that piano. May God’s comforting presence surround you and uphold you in this time of sorrow.

  31. Paul and Sue Robinson

    December 8, 2017 at 9:45 PM

    Dear Karen: Our heartfelt sympathy to you and the family on the passing of your dear Mother. It was a privilege to know her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Paul and Sue Robinson

  32. David and Cathie Paul

    December 8, 2017 at 9:43 PM

    We were so saddened to hear of the passing of your dear Mom and Grandmother. Keep the happy memories close to your heart. Please know that we are thinking of all of you at this difficult and trying time.

  33. Arnold and Margaret DeLong

    December 8, 2017 at 9:37 PM

    Our sincere condolences to Karen and family.

  34. Sharon Culbert

    December 8, 2017 at 9:36 PM

    Karen and family
    So very sorry to hear of your Moms passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time.
    Know that you have many friends who will be here for you including your OB Tribe.
    Hugs
    Sharon Culbert and Mike Jones

  35. Sharon Leslie Witteveen.

    December 8, 2017 at 8:08 PM

    Heartfelt condolences to you all my dear friend.

    Elsie Witteveen, Sharon and Daryl Leslie, Brian and Barbara Witteveen.

  36. Marianne & Ron

    December 8, 2017 at 7:49 PM

    Karen, Josh, Adam and Insley Families
    May all your wonderful memories give you strength, now and in the weeks and months to come.
    Our sincere condolences to you. She was so kind and caring to all.
    Hugs and blessings to you all.
    Ron & Marianne

  37. Ena de Haan

    December 8, 2017 at 7:27 PM

    Dear Doris , and Pauline. Karen too though I don’t know you.

    Ruth was a beautiful person who used to walk by our home when she lived on Carling St. not so long ago. She never complained but saw the positive everywhere!
    I wish you strength and good memories knowing Ruth has been received by her God and she has peace now and no pain.
    Ena

  38. Wallace Pfaff

    December 8, 2017 at 7:22 PM

    Karen and family. my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Ruth was a wonderful lady, I knew her for many many years. Regards. Wallace Pfaff

  39. Doris Richardson

    December 8, 2017 at 7:18 PM

    A wonderful person, friend, neighbour,and caregiver. Ruth was so thoughtful of others and did many silent deeds to make others lives a little brighter. We were ever grateful of her kindness to Keith. It was always nice to have a visit with her to share conversation and a few good laughs over a cup of tea and a treat. A loving Mother and fine example of a truly generous and gracious lady.

  40. Cathy Parsons

    December 8, 2017 at 7:07 PM

    Karen, Josh & Adam…so very sorry to hear about your Mom/Grandmother….she was a lovely Lady and you will always have the cherished memories… her radiance lives on through you guys! Thinking of you and sending our deepest condolences.

    Al & Cathy

  41. Dave and sandy MacPherson

    December 8, 2017 at 7:01 PM

    Dave and I send our condolences Karen

  42. Evelyn Vincent

    December 8, 2017 at 5:27 PM

    To Ruth’s family,
    The world has lost a wonderful, kind person. May you experience peace and comfort as you mourn your great loss

  43. Sandra & Larry Hern

    December 8, 2017 at 5:16 PM

    Dear Karen and all of Ruth’s family,

    We were so saddened to just now read that Ruth had passed. Your family has had such heartache in the last few months. We had a nice visit with Ruth just recently and were planning to visit with her again next week with a small Christmas gift from the Granton Masons as we have done for several years. We always had such interesting conversations, and she was so proud of her family! Ruth was such a warm and wonderful lady and we know she will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Our sympathy to your family… and may she rest in peace.

  44. Jody Insley

    December 8, 2017 at 5:09 PM

    Watch over us all Aunt Ruth. God blessed us with your presents.

    Love is with you Karen, now and forever as your Mother lives on inside of you.

    Cousin

  45. Larry & Sharon Gibson

    December 8, 2017 at 3:43 PM

    Karen and family so sorry to hear of your mothers passing our thoughts and prayers are with all of you

  46. Isabelle, Wayne and Carolyn Becker

    December 8, 2017 at 3:38 PM

    Family of Ruth,

    Our condolences for the loss of a wonderful woman. Always had a smile and loved to chat. She will be missed at the Villa. May she be your shining star and keep all the good times and laughter close to your heart.

  47. Exeter Villa

    December 8, 2017 at 3:37 PM

    The residents and staff of the Exeter Villa send their heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
    We will all miss Ruth and her wonderful talent of playing the piano.

  48. Mike and JoAnne Pickering

    December 8, 2017 at 3:17 PM

    Karen so sorry to hear of your mothers passing. Sending our deepest sympathies to you and your family. I know you have many many great memories of your mom to help you through this sad time!! Mike and JoAnne Pickering

  49. Karen L Brown

    December 8, 2017 at 3:17 PM

    Karen, Josh and Adam … My deepest condolences to you on the passing of your mother and grandmother. It has certainly been a trying time for your entire family however there is comfort in knowing that Ruth is now with Murray and your strong family unit will be there for one another in the days and weeks ahead. I will keep all of you in my prayers.

    Hugs, Karen

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