Ruth M. Mahin

August 3, 1930 – March 23, 2026

A Legacy of Light

Ruth’s life was a testament to creativity, resilience, and boundless love. To know Ruth was to be touched by her enthusiasm and her remarkable spirit.

Ruth, one of thirteen children and a middle child, is celebrated for her loving and generous nature. Even after marrying her beloved husband and leaving home at age 20, she remained a constant and vibrant part of her family’s life, as shown in surviving letters and in her sister Jeanette’s Tribute.

Her commitment was demonstrated through her consistent efforts to connect: She visited the family home for summer holidays every other year and hosted reunions both in Ely and at her Blue Lake residence. Beyond these gatherings, she provided profound support, offering care during health challenges and giving generously through gifts and financial assistance whenever the family needed it.

Our mother was a true creator, capable of transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Her endless energy and dedication shone through in everything she did, from balancing family life, a strong work ethic, and community leadership, to designing two beautiful homes. She would sew clothes and costumes for plays/holidays, volunteer in her children’s schools, care for our many pets, landscape and garden, and craft fantastic holiday decorations from simple materials.

As a Campfire leader she showcased her ability to make any endeavor worthwhile, leaving an indelible mark on young minds. She was the life of our household, constantly adapting while remaining young at heart, with her charm, wit, and humor making her a magnet for people of all ages. Her parties were legendary—vibrant spaces for laughter, singing, and celebration.

Jim Mahin, and their son, Jim Jr., established Four Seasons Heating and Air Conditioning. She served as Secretary Treasurer for the HVAC company, applying her strong clerical skills to manage all aspects of bookkeeping and business administration, despite having only a high school education. Through their dedication, they built a lasting legacy with a strong presence in the Portland Metropolitan area.

Ruth consistently made a significant impact in her community. With her husband, Jim, she was actively involved in the Columbia River Yacht Club, serving as Entertainment Coordinator before becoming “First Lady” when Jim became Commodore. Her artistic and creative talents were also dedicated to the Royal Rosarians, where she and Jim participated. Ruth’s creativity shone in a tole painting class, resulting in beautiful pieces like wall hangings, a clock, treasure chests, and a bench. Later, when Jim faced terminal cancer, Ruth was his pillar of strength and comfort, playing a vital role in his decision to embrace the Catholic Faith. This period also led to Ruth renewing her own faith; she became an active member of St. Henry’s Church, serving on the board and forging meaningful new friendships.

After the loss of Jim Mahin, Ruth, supported by Jim Jr., demonstrated remarkable courage and a steadfast commitment to upholding her late husband’s legacy. She maintained active friendships with their circle, continuing to host gatherings and offering her characteristic kindness and support. Ruth also explored her passion for theater, joining the Sandy Theater and taking on roles such as Lucy in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and the Ghost of Christmas Past in A Christmas Carol. Artistically, she further honed her skill in painting, creating more cherished items and even designing her own Christmas card. Throughout this time, she remained deeply involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren.

Ruth’s courage and faith remained awe-inspiring, even into her final decade. Her focus became simplified to the present moment, finding precious joy in simple pleasures like painting, music, prayer, and the wonders of nature—a powerful reminder of what truly matters. In her final home, and with the magical care of Leah, she continued to shine her light and spirit, sharing laughter, love, and joy with everyone she met.

We will forever cherish her loving words of encouragement and her unwavering belief in hope and faith. While her wishes were to climb Mt. Hood and spread her ashes among the trees beautifully captures her ambitious, pioneering spirit, her heart ultimately rests beside her beloved husband.

Today, we honor Ruth by remembering the light she brought into our lives. May we carry forward her creative spirit, her work ethic, and her capacity for pure and simple joy.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother and friend, Ruth Mahin, who passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026.  Ruth was a devoted and cherished member of our community.

Funeral Service Details:

A funeral mass will be held at St. Henry’s Church (346 NW 1st St., Gresham, OR 97030) on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM.

A reception will follow immediately in the church, featuring a luncheon, a family video, and an opportunity for attendees to share memories of Ruth through speech and song.

Following the reception, and at 2:30, a graveside ceremony will take place at Mt. View Cemetery (SE Smith Rd, Corbett, OR 97019).

We welcome all who knew and loved Ruth to join us in celebrating her life.

In Lieu of Flowers:

The family kindly requests that donations be made in Ruth’s name to Jovial Care Home (2195 River Heights Circle, West Linn, OR 97068)

The following link is to the family video that will be viewed at the reception: Celebration of the life of Ruth Mahin