Obituaries

Ruth Rumble Simpkins, born on August 9, 1946, in Callicoon, NY, passed away on September 1, 2023, in Fremont, CA. She was 77 years old.

Ruth was a dedicated educator who left a lasting legacy through her 39-year career as a kindergarten teacher. She began her journey in education after graduating from State University of New York at Cortland and later earned a Master's Degree from San Jose State University. Her passion for teaching led her to Fremont Unified School District, where she touched the lives of generations of young minds. Some of her closest friends were those she met while teaching. Ruth and her husband Paul raised children Ben and Betsy in Fremont and then 12 years in Santa Cruz before returning to Fremont in 1999, creating life long memories in both places.

Even after retiring, Ruth continued to share her love for learning by substitute teaching. Ruth also was a compassionate volunteer at the local American Cancer Society Discovery Thrift shop, where she contributed to the fight against cancer and supported those in need.

Ruth’s family was her pride and joy, and she treasured spending time with them. She is survived by her loving husband Paul Simpkins, a son and daughter-in-law, Ben and Cassie Brenzel; a daughter Betsy Martinez and partner Littlejohn Pulido. Ruth was a devoted and proud grandmother to Juliane and Aubrey Brenzel and Daisy Martinez. Every visit with her granddaughters included a creative craft session and lots of love.

Holidays were a special time for Ruth. She infused every celebration with her love for decorating and gift giving, creating a warm and festive atmosphere that will be sorely missed. Ruth especially loved receiving and sending Christmas cards, spreading holiday cheer with those near and far. The holidays will never be the same without her.

Ruth was known for her warm and welcoming home, which she decorated with love and care. Her hospitality made everyone feel comfortable and cherished. In her free time, Ruth enjoyed an engaged social life. She relished shopping trips, lunch and dinner dates with friends, adventurous outings to San Francisco, and years of attending car shows with her family and friends.

Ruth is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law Ed and Katja Rumble, along with their family. She was preceded in death by brother, Roy Brooks Rumble, and parents, Edmund and Dorothy Rumble.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Ruth’s life will be held on Monday, September 18th, 2:00pm at Niles Discovery Church in Niles, CA. Zoom information will be available through the family.