Ruth C. Mann, 90, of Brighton, passed away peacefully under the care of hospice and her family Feb. 17.
Ruth was born in Manzanola Dec. 5, 1925. She was the only child of Leroy and Blanche Cruts. She spent her childhood in Lake George and attended school in Manitou Springs. A mountain girl through and through, Ruth always fondly recounted the time she spent in her youth enjoying the nature and beauty of Colorado’s high country. She married Loren Kirby “Bud” Mann in October 1947. Together, they pursued many endeavors including a trout farm, restaurant/bar, and raising livestock on their acreage in the Brighton area.
Ruth attended the University of Northern Colorado where she earned a master’s degree in education. Along with her endeavors with Bud, Ruth taught at Independence School in Fort Lupton, Pleasant Valley in Weld County, North Cottages, Bertha Hyde and Leroy Drive in Northglenn. Teaching was her passion, and she worked diligently as an elementary school teacher and reading specialist for more than 40 years. Ruth retired from the classroom in 1987 but continued to volunteer her time and energies as a reading aide for years after.
She was a dedicated member of the International Order of Eastern Star for 72 years, attending Loraine Chapter 52 in Brighton, where she served as worthy matron in 1961. Ruth was actively involved in community service through the organization.
Ruth was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Her family was the love of her life. She was a vibrant and fearless pioneer woman who spent her free time on the farm working hard in addition to her other responsibilities. When not outside nurturing her flowerbeds or tending to the animals, she was busy cooking, playing the piano, or enjoying her favorite pastime, reading.
Ruth is survived by her two sons, Mike Mann, of Thornton, and Chris Mann, (Loretta) of Hudson; her five grandchildren, Corrina Mann, Nick Mann, Amanda Reynolds (Don), Kirby Mann, and Amy Cozzens (Chris); and her four great-grandchildren, Laney, Keira, Carter, and Anderson; she also leaves behind many caring relatives and friends. Her husband and her parents preceded her in death.
A memorial service will be at 10 a.m., March 11, at Tabor-Rice Funeral Home in Brighton, which handled the arrangements. Interment follows at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver.