Ruth Aileen Nelson

Ruth Aileen Breimeyer Nelson passed away peacefully May 20, 2011, at Hartford Hospital in the presence of her loving children. Born on All Saint's Day 1918 and raised in Fort Recovery OH and Portland IN, Ruth "had more energy than her three siblings combined," and beyond her farm chores she excelled in writing earned several county and state wide awards and music flute, piccolo. Ruth proudly attended Indiana University, where she majored in English, played in the band, achieved rank of ROTC Cadet Colonel and took classes in "Marriage" from Dr. Alfred Kinsey. Upon graduation in 1940 Ruth worked at Seagrams in Louisville KY where, after an ardent courtship she wed the love of her life, Richard Nelson in 1942. Dick and Ruth moved to West Hartford in1958 when Dick joined Heublein as Vice President of Operations. After successfully raising five equally energetic children, becoming a fiercely competitive bridge player, and shepherding Dick into retirement, Ruth committed her energies and creativity to the Mark Twain House and Museum by first managing the Christmas House Tour she tripled attendance and then serving for several years as the President of Friends of the Mark Twain Memorial where she is still remembered fondly for her positive and determined approach to her many substantial contributions. Ruth's enthusiasm and energy, her poise and grace, and mainly her kind and giving spirit inspired affection and loyalty by all who encountered her: friends, neighbors, non-profit associates and especially those of us who knew her best - her loving family. Ruth was predeceased by Richard Nelson who died in 2001, as well as daughter Janice Nelson Berry and daughter-in-law Johanna Saur Nelson. She is survived by her dedicated children: Linda of West Hartford, CT; Steve and his wife Rosemary of Southborough, MA; Jack of Hartford, CT and Roger and his wife Amy of Tolland, CT. Ruth is also survived by seven adoring grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and many loving nieces and nephews. The Memorial Service for Ruth will be held Friday June 3, 4:00 PM at Duncaster in Bloomfield CT 860-726-2000. Pastor Puck Purnell of Old St Andrews Church will preside and Molloy Funeral Home is providing funeral services. Donations in Ruth's memory may be made to the Mark Twain House and Museum: www.marktwainhouse.org.