Ruth E. Gillies

Ruth E. Gillies, 85, of Lincoln, passed away Sunday, December 12, 2010 at Lincoln Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community. Born March 5, 1925 to Ernest and Matilda (McGregor) Basselman in Glennie, she was raised in Barton City. On August 14, 1948, she married Richard Gillies. They were residents of Saginaw, Alpena, and Detroit, until 1956 when they purchased Gillies Funeral Home in Lincoln. Ruth worked at the funeral home, and was a devoted homemaker. She was a life member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Barton City, and of its Ladies Aid. She was also a member of the Friends of the Lincoln Depot. Ruth enjoyed playing bridge, quilting, and meals at the Lincoln Senior Center. She was active her whole life, and liked outdoor activities including golfing, walking, and working in her flower garden. Ruth made a friend everywhere she went. She is survived by her husband; Dick, son; Rich (Mary) Gillies of Barton City, two grandchildren; Sara (Aaron) Healy of Lincoln and Jeff (Marilee) Gillies of Haslett, one great grandson; Henrik Healy, one sister; Leora Gillard of Lincoln, one sister-in-law; Arden Basselman of Barton City, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter; Sharon on February 13, 2007, her brother; James Basselman, and her brother-in-law; Bill Gillard. Visitation will be at Gillies Funeral Home, Lincoln on Wednesday, December 15 from 3 until 8 pm. Funeral services will be on Thursday, December 16 at 1:00 PM at the funeral home. Rev. Laraine Sundin will officiate. Burial will be in Twin Lakes Cemetery, Lincoln. Memorial Donations suggested to the Friends of the Lincoln Depot, in care of the Alcona Historical Society, or to the Alcona County Commission on Aging. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Ruth E. Gillies, please visit our flower store.