Saratoga Springs – Ruth Margaret Hannum passed away peacefully at the Wesley Health Care Center on May 9, 2008 at the age of 94.

Born on July 4, 1913 in Weehawken, NJ, she was the daughter of the late John J. and G. Doris Zimmermann and the beloved wife of the late George Latimer Hannum.

During her working years, she was an Executive Secretary for several corporations in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New Hampshire. She taught sewing classes for Singer Sewing Corporation for 20 years; then her favorite job was as a partner with her husband in directing YMCA summer camps for hundreds of youth for 45 years. They were always known as “Aunt Ruth and Uncle Lat.”

Ruth and Lat lovingly shared 53 years of wedded joy and a strong commitment to serving their communities, singing together every Sunday in their church choirs and planning many family get-togethers for dearly loved ones. Ruth was happiest when preparing a delicious meal for her family and friends. She was a dedicated volunteer for her church, for numerous community groups, and to many others who needed a helping hand and all were blessed by her sweet smile.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her son, George W. Hannum; by a brother, Mathias Zimmermann and a sister, Eleanor Kenyon.

She is survived by her daughter, Lois R. Collins of Anderson, SC; four grandchildren, James (Lynn) Hannum of Winthrop, ME, Douglas (Elizabeth) Collins of Anderson, SC, Matthew Hannum of Boston, MA and Michelle Hannum (Chris Noll) of Pullman, WA; great-grandchildren, Bailey and Celeste Hannum, Jacob, Benjamin and Emily Collins, Riley and Morgan Hannum and by a niece, Marilyn Carpenter and a nephew, Robert (Pat) Zimmermann of NJ.

Ruth’s family extends sincere appreciation and thanks to the staff of Wesley Health Care Center for their love and care given to her for six years.

A graveside service was held on Tuesday, July 1, 2008 at Pittsfield Cemetery, Pittsfield, MA for family and friends. There were no calling hours.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of Saratoga Springs.

Remembrances may be made to the Wesley Health Care Center, 131 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.