RUTH CECELIA JULIAN

Ruth Cecelia Bushey was born Dec. 8, 1930, into the farm family of Raymond and Mae (Stewart) Bushey, joining brother Raymond and sister Catherine. Life on the farm cultivated her love of gardening and flowers.

She graduated from Alpena High in 1948 and then earned her Registered Nursing degree from Borgess/Nazareth Nursing School. It was there that she met her classmates and loyal lifetime friends. Together they were known as “The Naughty Nine,” and have kept in contact through circulating a class letter for over 60 years.

Ruth lived her calling as a nurse by being a compassionate caregiver throughout her life. She was one of the small group of people instrumental in forming the first hospice care in Alpena.

Although Alzheimer’s Disease robbed much of her memory, she was able to continue her love of music through song and hymns.

Ruth married Walter Julian on Jan. 19, 1951. Together they had five children: Susan (Tim) Fitzpatrick, Sandra (Justin) Michael, Sally (Dan) Bruski, David Julian, and Diane (Howard) Barsen.

Ruth was also blessed with grandchildren, Adam (Nicki) Bruski, Emily (Mark) Bruski-Rysberg, Abe (Chelsey) Bruski, Lindsay (Andrew Liske) Fitzpatrick, Ben (Kristina McCahill) Michael, Chris Michael, Matt (Jill) Barsen; and great grandchildren, Abigail, Olivia, Claire, Cate, Andrew, Emry, Ava, Sam, and Adaline. Ruth also deeply loved her nieces and nephews.

Ruth is now reunited with her husband, Walter; son, David; her parents and siblings, Raymond and Catherine Baker. Ruth is living in the hearts of those she loved … for nothing loved is ever lost and she was loved so much.

Visitation will take place at Bannan Funeral Home on Thursday from 4-8 p.m. with the rosary recited at 4 p.m. Visitation will continue Friday at St. Bernard Church of All Saints Parish from 10 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with Rev. James Fitzpatrick officiating.

Interment: Holy Cross Cemetery

Memorials: Ruth Julian Nursing Scholarship at Alpena Community College or Alzheimer’s Association for Research