GOUVERNEUR — Ruth C. Whitaker, 88, passed away Friday, September 28, 2012 at River Ledge Nursing Home, Ogdensburg.

Funeral arrangements are private with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Ruth was born September 9, 1924 in Williamson, Massachusetts, the daughter of William and Jessie Start Collins.

Ruth graduated from high school in Troy, NY and married Alton W. Whitaker on November 17, 1947 at the Herkimer United Methodist Church.

The couple resided in Mohawk following their marriage and moved to the Russell Turnpike Road, Balmat in 1958. Mr. Whitaker, a former employee of Remington Arms and a retired employee of St. Joe Minerals passed away December 31, 1977.

Ruth worked as the head cook at a diner in Fowler and moved to Cambray Court Apartments in 1989. Ruth enjoyed golf, cooking, spending time with her children and grandchildren, and served as a Brownie den mother for several years. She also was a member of the Herkimer United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women, and the Gouverneur Senior Citizens.

Ruth is survived by three sons William and Terri Whitaker of Balmat, Robert and Jacky Whitaker of Lawton, OK, Richard and Joann Whitaker of Pulaski, 9 grandchildren, several great grandchildren. She is also survived by four brothers Charles Collins of Herkimer, James Collins of West Winfield, Richard Collins of West Winfield, David Collins of Jordanville, a sister Doris Miller of Herkimer, several nieces and nephews. Ruth is predeceased by her parents, three brothers William, Edward, and John Collins, and a sister Carol Collins.

Memorial donations may be made to the Gouverneur Vol. Rescue Squad.

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