Legacy of Care: Remembering Ruth Richardson

Ruth Richardson was born and raised in Artemesia Township. She married Cliff, and together they raised three children: Cam, Cathy, and Robin.

Ruth trained as a Medical Laboratory Technologist at Women’s College Hospital in Toronto. Returning home, she worked for 35 years in the lab at Markdale Hospital. She loved her co-workers and was proud of being part of the team providing excellent care for patients. Ruth was always keen to invest in new lab equipment—when hospital budgets allowed—to take advantage of emerging technology and efficiencies.

Fundraising for the new hospital in Markdale began after her retirement, but Ruth eagerly volunteered for the campaign, encouraging people to give. She used to smile and say, “I wonder if I’ll see the new hospital in my lifetime?” Sadly, she did not—but she would have been so excited and proud!

Ruth passed away in 2016, but her generous spirit lives on here in our community, because of the $10,000 gift she made in her will to the Centre Grey Health Services Foundation, designated for new lab equipment. We know Ruth would be thrilled knowing that her gift was used exactly as she requested—to purchase a state-of-the-art microscope after the new hospital opened.

With over 300,000 lab tests done annually at our hospital, Ruth’s gift is helping thousands of friends and neighbours. This is a legacy she would be proud of.

Thank you, Ruth!