In Memory

Shirley Treytl (Ruttan) - Class Of 1952

Shirley Treytl (Ruttan)

Shirley Nalbach-Ruttan, our beloved mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away unexpectedly on March 27, 2016 at 81 years of age. She was predeceased by her parents Fred and Anna Treytl, her cherished husband Robert Ruttan, and her dear brother Bill. She leaves behind her three children, Eric (Joanne) Nalbach, Moreah Scarletts, and Katheryn McCoy, seven grandchildren, one great grandchild, her sister Mary Lou Johnson, and her companion Nicky the cat, and many dear friends.

Shirley was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on January 27, 1935. She immigrated to Canada by car during a cold December in 1966, with her first husband James and their three children, two Dobermans, two Siamese cats, and a tank full of goldfish. She was an amazing and loving woman with many talents. Her unique and gorgeous jewelry pieces are worn and cherished by many.  She had a flair for water colors, often depicting places she had lived and the experiences had in her works. She also created some of the most beautiful nature inspired stain glass pieces personally designed for those near and dear to her heart. She loved the opera and classical music and avidly shared it with her young children and grandchildren.

In her early married life she was a dedicated mother and homemaker. She was a Cub Scout den mother and Brownie leader and worked as a gourmet chef for a time. Being an accomplished seamstress, she lovingly sewed costumes and school outfits. She took great joy in baking and creating ethnic dishes from around the world. She was a wonderful and nurturing mother and loved her family dearly.

Her sharp mind, insatiable curiosity and passion for learning led her down many other path on her life's journey. With her very high IQ and incredible memory, there was truly nothing she didn't know something about and sharing it with anyone and everyone who would listen gave her great joy and satisfaction. She always made an impression on those who met her. Shirley captivated all those that met her with her stories, her knowledge, her compassion and heart. She will be missed immensely and never forgotten.

Athabasca Advocate, July 7, 2016