Ruth Ann Kors

Obituary Ruth Ann Kors After a 24 year strife with Alzheimer's disease, Ruth Kors, 85, gracefully passed away on April 11, 2013. For the past 7 ½ years, in Ruth's later stages of her disease, she has received the utmost tender and loving care provided by her daughter-in-law, Belinda Kors, with Ruth's son, Joseph, by her side. Ruth was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI, where she met her beloved husband, James Kors, while he was studying at Maurquette University. They were blessed with 8 children, raising them in Tacoma, WA where they resided. A woman of faith and strong family values, Ruth treasured and took the highest pride in her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ruth was a noble philanthropist and leader, who found passion for civic duty, devoting her time and resources to helping improve the quality of Tacoma, Pierce County, and the citizens therein. Along with Ruth's countless hours of volunteer work, some of her more noteworthy accomplishments include being the first female President of the USO Board, President of League of Women Voters, Managing Director of Tacoma Actors Guild, Manager of Government Affairs and Community Development for Tacoma Pierce County Chamber of Commerce, and Municipal League Distinguished Citizen Award recipient. Ruth was preceded in death by her loving husband of 56 years, James Kors. She is survived by her 8 children, James, Jeanette, Jeffrey, Jerald, Joseph, Joshua, Jill, Jason and their spouses; her 21 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Upon receiving her diagnosis, Ruth agreed to participate in a research study conducted through the University of Washington. She has donated her exceptional brain to the University with the optimism that future medical research advancement can be made in the area of Alzheimer's. In lieu of flowers, it was Ruth's wish that contributions be made to the University of Washington's Alzheimer's Disease Research Center. Donations may be sent to: UW Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, VA Puget Sound Heath Care System, S-1126 6-East; 1660 S. Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 or online at, http://www.supportuwmedicine.org/adrc A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, April 26, 2013 at 2:00pm at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 5510 N. 44th, Tacoma. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003. A Life Celebration® Home.