Ruth (Tatsapaugh) Dickinson

NORTH CANAAN — Ruth (Tatsapaugh) Dickinson, 87, died Jan. 28, 2015, at Geer Nursing and Rehabilitation. 

She was the widow of Harold Dickinson, who predeceased her on Sept. 3, 2009. 

Ruth was born in North Canaan on Dec. 23, 1927, daughter of the late Mary (Gandelli) and William M. Tatsapaugh.

Ruth graduated from North Canaan Elementary School and Housatonic Valley Regional High School. 

Following graduation, she worked as a telephone operator for more than 15 years for SNET. Upon leaving SNET, Ruth worked as a clerk alongside her brother, David, at his business, Printing Services. 

Never one to tire, Ruth’s last occupation — her labor of love — was acting as her mother’s caregiver during her mother’s final years. 

Ruth enjoyed creating and writing her own poetry, and reading. However, her true passion was spending time with her nieces and nephews. 

Ruth was a longtime member of the Canaan United Methodist Church, starting her membership when she was in elementary school.

Ruth is survived by her brother, Norman A. Tatsapaugh of North Canaan; two sisters, Mary Helene Lolli and Eileen Ballinger, both of California; and her special nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by two brothers, William R. and David F. Tatsapaugh.

A service of remembrance is being planned for late April or early May at the Canaan United Methodist Church. Burial will follow that service in Ashley Falls Cemetery. 

Memorial donations may be sent to either the Canaan Fire Company, 4 East Main St., North Canaan, CT 06018; or the Canaan United Methodist Church, 2 Church St., North Canaan, CT 06018. 

Arrangements are under the care of the Newkirk-Palmer Funeral Home, 118 Main St., North Canaan, CT 06018.