Ruth Johnson Hanson died in a Bountiful nursing home on November 15, 1994, of causes related to Parkinson's Disease, which she contracted 23 years ago.
She was born in Ogden, October 14, 1933 to William Wallace Johnson and Alice May Johnson, both deceased.She is survived by her husband, Marvin L. Hanson; six children, Rebecca Crowley, Hugh Hanson, Joel Hanson, Paris Hanson, Jane Ziakas, and Tyler Hanson, all of Utah; 12 grandchildren; and by a sister, Martha Barney; and two brothers, Gordon A. Johnson and Richard W. Johnson.
Ruth was a woman of many talents and accomplishments. Prior to her move five years ago to the nursing home, she had served in many LDS Church positions. She was a much-loved Relief Society, MIA and Primary teacher, founder and editor of the ward newsletter, counselor in organizations, writer, director and actress in many award-winning ward roadshows, and choir member. She possessed a beautiful soprano voice, and sang professionally as a young woman. After losing her singing voice from administration of testesterone following child birth 26 years ago, she worked to regain it, and after seven years, was once again singing soprano in the ward choir.
She was co-founder, over a decade ago, of the Northern Utah Parkinson's Support Group, which continues to meet monthly at the VA Hospital. In her younger years she was an excellent swimmer and a water safety instructor for the Red Cross. She will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her wonderful sense of humor, her creative talents, and her service to her church and neighbors.
Ruth donated her body to the University of Utah Medical Center for the purpose of contributing to the knowledge concerning effects of
Parkinson's Disease.
A memorial service will be held at the North Canyon Fifth Ward Chapel, 2205 So. Davis Blvd., in Bountiful, on Friday, November 18, at 6:30 p.m. The family will receive visitors begining at 5:30.
Those who might send flowers are encouraged instead to donate to the Parkinson's Disease Research Fund.
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