Obituary of Ruth E. Geffken

Schenectady- Ruth E. Geffken 96, of Heritage Home, formerly of Sumner Avenue, Schenectady, died Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at Ellis Hospital after a brief illness. Ruth was born in Newburgh, NY, daughter of the late Frederick and Isabel Bidwell Geffken. She had lived in Hartford, CT for many years before coming to Schenectady in 1972. Ruth received a BS in Science and Education from New Britain Normal School in New Britain CT, in 1934 and a Master Degree in Education in 1943 from the University of Vermont. She taught Elementary Education in Madison, CT from 1934 to 1944 then from 1944 to 1947 served in France, Philippines, Japan and Korea for the American Red Cross. In 1947 she returned to Hartford CT where she taught Elementary Education in the Hartford CT School System where she retired from in 1972. Ruth was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, National Teacher Society, Eastern Parkway United Methodist Church , Youth Over Fifty Group and Circle "B", Annie Schaffer Sr. Citizens, Schenectady Historical Society and its Auxiliary. She is survived by her cousin, Ann McKendree of Charlotte, NC and many dear friends from her neighborhood and her church. A funeral service will be held today (Thursday) at 2 PM at the Jones Funeral Home, 1503 Union St.,(at McClellan St.), with the Rev. Steven Smith officiating. A calling hour will be held from 1 PM prior to the service for those who wish to call. Burial will be in Park View Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Ruth's memory to Eastern Parkway United Methodist Church, Palmer Avenue and Eastern Parkway, Schenectady, NY 12309. A special Thank You to the Staff at Heritage Home for Women and Hospice for their loving care of Ruth.