Ruth Ellen Wood Bradley, BHS 1969

Ruth Ellen Wood Bradley, BHS 1969

Ruth was born on October 30, 1951 to Theodore (Ted) and Flora Ann Wood, in Glendale, California. She passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family and close friends on July 16, 2013.

Ruth was raised in Burbank, along with her three sisters, Ann (Hand), Mary (Forsen), and Carol (Ruth was #3). Having starred as "Marion the Librarian" in The Music Man, Ruth graduated Burbank High School in 1969.

In 1970, while traveling and performing with the Southern California Youth Chorale in Japan, she met her new best friend and soul mate, Quinton "Corky" Bradley. She instantly became the love of his life. They were married in Hacienda Heights in 1973, and lived in Whittier prior to moving to Irvine, CA.

Blessings came into their lives when, in 1982 Aaron Quinn Bradley was born. And, in 1990, Zachary David Bradley completed their family unit.

Ruth spent most of her professional career as a Commercial Property Manager; at one point managing tenant relations at the largest mall in Orange County: South Coast Plaza.

The Bradley family moved to Fort Collins in 1993 (Ruth's idea!), where she worked in customer relations at Larrabee's, until they closed. From then on, Ruth would just say she was a "kept woman". Ruth enjoyed gardening, going to the gym, traveling, and cooking, as well as spending time with dear friends.

Ruth is survived by her sons Aaron and Zachary, Husband Corky, sisters Ann, Mary, and Carol, and Cooper, her Westie.
As the end of her short life rapidly approached, family and friends gathered to remember and tell stories, laugh, cry, sing, and toast the wonderful times that were shared with Ruth. Since we know that she was nearby and could hear this, we know that it was the perfect way to celebrate her life and influence on the Earth.

Ruth believed that we are all of the same Spirit, and exemplified love, joy, inclusiveness, and respect for all life. She will be dearly missed by everyone who was blessed to know her.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish to make a donation, please do so in Ruth's name to the American Cancer Society, The family would also like to thank the incredible doctors and staff at the University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora, the Fort Collins Center for Neurorehabilitation Services, and Accent Care Hospice.