Susan Marie Ruka, a beloved daughter, sister, friend, mentor, and advocate, passed away on Jan. 26, 2025, after facing ovarian cancer with dignity and grace. Born in Boston on May 4, 1955, she moved to Madison, N.H., in 1982, where she built a life filled with purpose, compassion and community service.
Sue was the daughter of the late Albinas and Mary Ruka, with Mary passing this past November. She is survived by her devoted sister, Sandy Ruka, RN, MSN, and by her cherished sisters of the heart, Pat Poirier and Dale Smith-Kenyon; and Dale’s husband, Jack. Sue found immense joy in spending time with Emilee Kenyon and her children, Vadik, Piper, and Levi Newcomb. She is also survived by Jim Mathisen, whom she considered a brother, her lifelong friend Gretchen Lindbeck of California, and her loving uncles and aunts, Henry and Rosemarie Sartor of Riverside, Calif., and Ed and Marie Ruka of Massachusetts.
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Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.