Ruth Blum

Ruth K. (Schlossberg) Blum, 96, the matriarch of five generations, passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2013.

Born in Germany in 1916, she was the daughter of Oskar and Ella (Sommer) Schlossberg. In 1936, with her mother and sister, Ruth immigrated to the United States fleeing Europe before the devastation of the Holocaust. While living in New York City, she graduated from beauty school and worked as a stylist and manicurist in Manhattan.

In June of 1944, Ruth married Herbert Blum. In 1948, they moved to Oxford, NY, and together they farmed and raised their four children. Herbert passed away on May 30, 1975.

Ruth was an avid gardener, cook, baker, seamstress and bridge player. She volunteered at Chenango Memorial Hospital and various other charities. She was a member of the Jewish Center in Norwich, and its Sisterhood, as well as a life member of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America.

Ruth is survived by her four children, Gary and Janice Blum, Enid and Richard Deeter, Marsha Silverman, and Lew and Corrine Blum. Eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson also survive.

A private graveside service for Ruth will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery where Cantor Kal Socolof will offer the committal prayers.

In lieu of floral offerings, those wishing to make a contribution in memory of Ruth, please consider donating to the Jewish Center of Norwich, 72 S. Broad St., Norwich, NY 13815, or to the charity of your choice.