Ruth Sanders Hannen

Ruth was born in Memphis, Tennessee on April 2, 1922 to Terry Bentley and Virginia Sanders. She had an older brother, Bentley; and an older sister, Virginia, whom she adored and who preceded her in death. Ruth's family lineage could be traced back to the American Revolution. She grew up in Memphis, but her family later moved to McAllen, Texas, where she finished high school She was a true daughter of the south-gentle and full of charm!

In 1940, Ruth married the boy next door, Cecil Roberts, and they had one son William Roberts. They later moved to Colorado Springs where they enjoyed a wonderful life surrounded by the Rocky Mountains.

At 36 Ruth lost her first husband, Cecil, to a heart attack. Once again, she needed a fresh start so she moved to Denver. She quickly found employment with a team of doctors at the University of Colorado. She worked there until her retirement in 1981.

One beautiful summer night she attended a dance for singles who had lost their spouses. A good looking man approached her and asked her to dance. His name was Justin Hannen. On January 2, 1982 they were married with all their children present. During their 34 years together, they traveled the world loving every minute of their time together.

Ruth loved entertaining at restaurants or in her home. As a young girl she learned to set a table and design a beautiful centerpiece. Ruth was a wonderful cook and few could forget her legendary cheese grits!!

Ruth and Justin loved getting in their car and exploring. Some-times they would find themselves as far away as Cheyenne. Other days they would drop by the home of one of their children with fresh corn, peaches or melted ice cream!!

Having grown up during the depression, and living through the great Texas drought in the 1950's, Ruth had many difficult years. The one constant in her life was her enduring faith in the Lord. She loved reading scripture and had placed her favorite scripture verses around her home to recite. She was a long-time member of St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church in Denver, Colorado.

Ruth will be forever missed by her family. She is survived by her son Bill Roberts (Jodi), step granddaughters Karen and Wendy; and her stepchildren Mark (Linda); Linda (Jim), Justin, Garrett, and Danny; Tom (Colleen) Maureen and Megan, and 7 step great grandchildren.

Goodbye sweet Ruth! Jesus, Mary and Joseph will be with you on your way. We love you.

In lieu of flowers please contribute to Suncrest Hospice of Colorado in gratitude for the care they provided to Ruth in her final days at Sunrise at Orchard Assisted Living. Contributions can also be made to St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church.