Obituary of Ruth B. Riel

MOHAWK – Ruth B. Riel a resident of Alpine Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Little Falls, NY, formally of Mohawk, passed away on Wednesday, September 18, 2019, at the age of 96.

 She was born in Pyrites, NY, on October 14, 1922 and resided in Mohawk, NY for most of her life. Ruth was the daughter of Elizabeth (Farmer) and James Baldwin of Mohawk, NY

Ruth had a fulfilling career as a telephone operator with Verizon. During World War II she lovingly connected members of the Armed Services with their sweethearts and families. Ruth always gave them extra time to say goodbye when they ran out of coins.

Ruth was preceded in death by her sister, Mae Loughlin; brothers, Robert, James and Raymond Baldwin; her beloved husband, Robert Riel; and her beloved son Michael Riel.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Linda Gannon and her husband, Edward, who reside in Warwick, RI; Her two grandchildren and spouses, Kelly Mazzei and husband, Anthony and Michael Gannon and wife, Tracey; five great grandchildren, Casey, Jack, Charlie, Natalie and Ashlyn. Ruth also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and her devoted friend and care giver, Cathy Carpenter.

There will be no calling hours.

Her Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at Blessed Sacrament Church, Mohawk NY, on Saturday, September 21, 2019, at 10:00 AM, offered by Father Mark Cunningham, assisted by Sr. Mary Jo Tallman, Parish Life Director. The family requests a private farewell for Ruth at Mohawk Cemetery following Mass.

All are invited to attend a luncheon following Mass, at PK’s Pub, 221 King Street, Herkimer, NY.

In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 507 Kent Street, Utica, NY 13501.

Ruth’s final arrangements have been entrusted to Harry J. and Kevin E. Enea & Martin L. Ciaccia, Funeral Directors at The Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road in Ilion, New York (Town of Frankfort). (315) 894-8000.