Ruth Berman

Ruth E. Berman, age 90, of South Hadley, died peacefully Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024 at Baystate Medical Center under hospice care. She was born in Brooklyn, NY on December 2, 1934 to Shirley (Dwin) and Julius Kass. Ruth graduated from the State Univ. of NY Teachers College at New Paltz with a BS in Art Education in 1956. She later went on to receive a Master of Education degree from Cambridge College in 1988. She worked as a public school art teacher and a high school language lab director, as well as a co-owner of an art gallery in Lexington, MA. Ruth knew from a young age that she wanted to be an artist. She fulfilled her dream by becoming an accomplished still life oil painter. In addition to painting, Ruth enjoyed knitting, reading, and water aerobics. She often recalled cherished childhood memories of summer vacations in the Catskills, searching for salamanders and catching fireflies. She loved family get-togethers and going out to breakfast. She will be most remembered for her radiant smile, quiet reserve, caring nature, and, of course, her beautiful paintings.

Ruth was predeceased by her loving sister, Madeleine (Kass) Wolpov. She is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Joseph; daughter, Lisa; son, Erik; daughter-in-law, Virginija; son-in-law, Robert; granddaughter, Rebecca, and many beloved in-laws, nieces and nephews. Her remains will be laid to rest in the family plot at Sharon Memorial Park in Sharon, MA. A private family memorial service will be held to honor her life. The family would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the medical team and hospice nurses of BMC during Ruth’s final days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.