Ruth Pipkin

Ruth (Peterson) Pipkin, 93, of Plainville passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 23, 2023 at Apple Rehab of Plainville. She is now reunited for the Holidays with her beloved husband of 55 years, Robert “Butch” Pipkin, who predeceased her on December 23, 2017.

Ruth was born on June 7, 1930 in Middletown, daughter of the late Roy O. Peterson, Sr. and Helen (Foley) Peterson. Raised in Middletown, Ruth was a graduate of Middletown High School and proudly was a majorette, accompanying the school marching band with her talented twirling performances. Ruth worked as a keypunch operator for many years for CL&P and IBM all while raising her family alongside her husband, Butch. Together they worked hard to provide for their family, building on the foundation of love and appreciation.

Ruth had a witty sense of humor and was blessed with “the gift of gab.”  She was known for telling endless stories, including some that never seemed to have an ending; however, they were enjoyed by all. Her attentiveness to detail was remarkable and she always made sure she got every word out that was on her mind, making you wonder what she was going to come up with next. There was always something to be said with Ruth around! Through the years, Ruth hosted many Holiday gatherings at her home for family and friends to come together to socialize, laugh, drink, eat delicious food and simply be happy to be in one another’s company.

Ruth was an avid reader and enjoyed her nightly end caps that she referred to as “Manhattan Hour,” this was her time to relax and unwind. Above all, Ruth was the happiest surrounded by her loving family, especially her adored grandchildren that held a special place in her heart. The matriarch of the family, she leaves countless stories, memories, and an abundance of love for her family to forever cherish and remember.

Ruth is survived by her son, Gary Pipkin and his partner, Heidi Samuelson, her daughter, Trudy Pelletier and her husband, Jimmy; her grandsons, Adam Pipkin and his wife, Erica, Jack Pipkin and his fiancée, Robin Friebur, Chad Pelletier and his wife, Rachel, and Josh Pelletier and his wife, Emily; her great-grandchildren, Mara, Ali, Abigail, Amelia, Ronan, River, Jared and Nathan; her sister, Jean (Peterson) Parmelee; her former daughter-in-law, Michele Procko, and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was predeceased by her brother, Roy O. Peterson, Jr. and her sister, Muriel (Peterson) Ensing.

Ruth’s family would like to extend their appreciation to Ruth’s caregiver for many years, Daria, who took exceptional care of their mother. Daria’s kindness and companionship will always be remembered and valued. A heartfelt thank you also to the staff at Apple Rehab in Chester, where they made Ruth feel as if she was at home.

Family and friends are welcome to gather on Wednesday, December 6th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville. Prayers and words of remembrance will be shared at 12:00 p.m. followed by a reception in celebration of Ruth’s life. Ruth will be laid to rest next to her husband in the CT State Veterans’ Cemetery privately at a later date. In memory of Ruth, donations can be made to her grandson Jack’s professional commitment to JoyRx Children's Cancer Association at www.joyrx.org/donate. The company JoyRx helps children who are fighting cancer and other serious illnesses. This non-profit is currently working with CT Children’s Medical Center in Hartford. For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.

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