Ruby Ruth O'Barr Cordes, BHS 1946

Ruby Ruth O'Barr Cordes, BHS 1946
January 18, 1929 - February 18, 2011

Ruby Ruth Cordes, 82, of Garden Grove, passed away on February 18, 2011. She was surrounded by family when she peacefully left this life and entered her heavenly home.

Ruby was a native Californian, born in Los Angeles on January 18, 1929. She and her sister spent much of their childhood in Banning, CA and the family later moved to Burbank, CA. After graduating from Burbank High School, she entered nursing school. Through mutual friends she met her future husband, Howard W. Cordes. They were married March 25, 1949, making their home together in Venice, CA.

In the fall of 1956 they relocated to Garden Grove with their family of 3 daughters. As new Christians, Howard and Ruby desired to grow in their faith, becoming members of Saint Olaf Lutheran Church during its formative years. She enjoyed the music and hymns in worship, expanded her knowledge of God's grace by regularly attending Bible studies, and supported the congregation through devoted prayer.

As a homemaker, Ruby was active in various social, spiritual, community, and political organizations, serving in diverse Leadership roles through the years. She had a passion for youth development, channeling her energies and resources to the betterment of society.

Her varied interests included playing cards, board games with grandchildren, jigsaw puzzles, reading, and traveling. Ruby loved fishing and camping, visiting State and National Parks, and her annual trips to Palm Springs and Dana Point with friends and family.

Ruby is remembered for her genuine personal interest in and love for others, as well as her generosity. Her constant optimism and firm belief that the individual can make a difference were an encouragement to all. She was highly respected for her candid opinions. Her companionship was sought by many and she will be sorely missed by all those who loved her and benefitted from her being a part of their lives.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard Cordes. She is survived by her sister: Dorothy (Dennis) Allen; daughters: Marcia (Larry) Sander, Susan (Robert) Bixler, and Jeanie (Bob) Morrow; nieces: Stacey Liebig, Lynne Rust, and families; grandchildren: Natalie (Mario) Montoya, Rebecca (Gary) Kymer, Julie Bixler (Arnie Castro), Tiffany Bixler, Chelsea (Adam) Kissack, Marilyn Morrow, and Allison Morrow; great-grandchildren: Ariana, Jacob, and Logan Montoya, Marcus Sander, Maya Kymer, and Robby Castro.

A visitation will be held Thursday, February 24, 2011, from 4:00p.m. - 8:00p.m., at Dimond and Shannon Mortuary, 10630 Chapman Ave, Garden Grove, CA. There will be a funeral Service in honor of Ruby, Friday, February 25, 2011 at 11:00a.m., at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, 12432 9th St., Garden Grove, CA. (In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation in her name to Saint Olaf Lutheran Church, Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, PO Box 5007, Minot, ND 58702-5007, or a charity of your choice)