Ruth Hildebrandt, 83

Ruth Hildebrandt passed away Aug. 4, 2005, at her home in Columbia Falls. She was surrounded by her family and died a very peaceful death.Ruth was born May 29, 1922, in Philadelphia to John and Catherine Loeffler. She graduated from Hicksville High School in New York. She met Victor Hildebrandt, and on Sept. 26, 1943, they were married. They celebrated their 50th anniversary at Meadow Lake Country Club in Columbia Falls.Ruth and Victor played bridge and golf during retirement. To Victor's dismay, Ruth was able to score a hole-in-one. They made many friends at bridge tournaments and on the golf course.Ruth was predeceased by Victor on Oct. 10, 2001.She is survived by a sister, Katherine Byrd, of Crystal River, Fla., and brother, John Loeffler, of Elbridge, N.Y. She is survived by her sons, Robert and wife, Patty, of Oceanside, N.Y., and George and wife, Paula, of Crystal River, Fla. She is also survived by her daughters, Nancy Hildebrandt and husband, John Hilgers, of Lake Five, and Doris and husband, Dan Turner, of Hungry Horse. Additionally, she is survived by 10 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.Ruth was a devoted wife and mother. She was admired and loved by the people she met and will be remembered for her strength and courage in battling illness in her final years.In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that a memorial donation be made to the Hospice Association.