Obituary of Ruth Elnora Pinese

Pinese: Ruth  (née Hartford) -

A lifelong resident of Shrewsbury, Ruth Pinese passed away peacefully at Riverview Gardens on February 16, 2026, at the age of 66.

Born in Chatham, Ruth was the beloved daughter of the late Wellington and Elnora (née Gifford) Hartford.

Ruth was a devoted and loving mother to McKenzie (Angela) and McKayla Scott, and a proud and adoring grandmother to Edwin Scott, who brought immeasurable joy and light to her life. She will be dearly missed by her siblings: Deb (Al), Basil (Karrie, 2008), John (Renee). Ruth was also a treasured aunt to her many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews, each of whom held a very special place in her heart.

In 1986, Ruth graduated from the Developmental Services Worker Program at St. Clair College, Chatham Campus. She began her career at the Southwest Regional Centre, where she served with deep compassion, dedication, and a true gift for caring for others. Ruth’s kindness, patience, and genuine warmth left a lasting impression on the many lives she touched.

Ruth was known for her vibrant personality-kind, caring, and wonderfully quick with a touch of sarcasm that brought laughter to those around her. She had a creative spirit and a passion for all things handmade. Whether she was crocheting, knitting, quilting, crafting dolls, or starting a new project she discovered at the end of someone’s driveway, Ruth found joy in creating beauty with her hands. She loved yard sales and thrifting; always delighted to uncover hidden treasures and share her finds with family and friends.

Her love of gardening was evident in every season, and no road trip was complete without stopping for plants, fresh food, or a charming roadside stand. Ruth embraced life’s simple pleasures and found happiness in nurturing both her garden and the people she loved.

Along with her extended family and many dear friends, all whose lives were enriched by her generous heart and lively spirit, Ruth leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and creativity.

Ruth’s memory will be treasured always by those who knew and loved her.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Riverview Gardens for the exceptional care and support Ruth received during her time there. Your kindness, patience, and genuine warmth brought her comfort each day and gave our family great peace of mind. We are deeply thankful for the dignity, respect, and love you showed Ruth — your care will always be remembered and sincerely appreciated.

As per Ruth's wishes cremation has taken place. 

A celebration of life will be held at the Community of Christ, 9096 Talbot Trail West, Blenheim, this Saturday February 21st, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend the service and stay afterward for a time of fellowship and remembrance.

Donations made in memory of Ruth to the War Amps, the March of Dimes or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
141 Park St, Blenheim
519-676-3451