Ruth Rose Gurke

With sadness our family announces the passing of Ruth Gurke in her 100th year on March 4th, 2026, at the Carman Memorial Hospital following a stroke.

Ruth was born on Easter Sunday, April 4th, 1926, in Brandon, MB to parents Peggy and Mike Metruk. Ruth attended Alexandra School in Brandon. Later moved to Portage la Prairie where she met her husband of over 50 years Albert Gurke.

Ruth was predeceased by her husband Albert in 2003; parents Mike and Peggy Metruk; siblings Ann, Mike, Bill, Minnie and extended family.

Ruth is survived by her daughter Maureen (Merv); son Allan (Linda); grandchildren Leanne, Stacy, Shawna, Darrin and Jillian (Mark); great grandchildren Lindsay, Teagen, Erika, Alexis, Janiah, Cara, Mariah, Janelle, Callie, Summer, Anna and William and great great grandchildren Dominic, Sanah, and Leilah along with many nieces, nephews and in-laws especially sister-in-law Margaret and special niece Karen.

Ruth was employed for 23 years at the Manitoba Development Center as a seamstress. She enjoyed being independent and able to live in her home from May 1955 to December 2025. She took pride in her home and garden, growing roses and violets, which blossomed year-round, were her specialty.

A celebration of Ruth’s life will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel, 56 Royal Rd. S. Portage la Prairie at 1:00 pm. Following a reception those who wish may join the family for the interment at Evergreen Memorial Gardens.

Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com