Ruth Elizabeth Gallagher Smith 88, died in Hemet, California, on Thursday, January 19, 2012. Born August 31, 1923, in Bluffton Township, Iowa.

She lived in Decorah, Iowa, and Riverside, California before settling in Hemet, California with her husband, Arthur. She was happiest when surrounded by her family and friends, especially at holidays and birthdays.

She loved to cook and bake for the entire family. She and her husband traveled to many parts of the world including Europe, Russia, Australia and New Zealand. They also spent a year traveling the United States in their camper.

Survivors include three children, David, Barbara and Gary, and grandchildren and great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur, and her son, John.

She will be laid to rest in the Riverside National Cemetery with her husband.

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