Ruby Nilsson

Our family celebrates the life of our mother, Ruby Elaine Nilsson (née Hindle), who passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the age of 91. While missing her deeply, we are grateful for the wonderful example she set and the many memories she leaves with us. 

Mom was born on March 23, 1935, in Edmonton, Alberta, the third child of A.J. Hindle and Bobbi Hindle (née Robson). She grew up in Edmonton, attending King Edward Park School and Old Strathcona High School. After graduating in 1953, she began working as a telephone operator with Alberta Government Telephones, where her friendly manner and strong work ethic quickly became evident.

 On April 30, 1955, Mom married our dad, Bill Nilsson, in Barrhead, Alberta, beginning a life journey that would span nearly 70 years. Together they built a life rooted in hard work, resilience, and a shared commitment to family. Along the way they operated livestock and real estate businesses, welcomed five children, and created a home where honesty, fairness, respect, and helping one another were taught and expected. 

As kids, we remember moving more times than we could count as Dad pursued new opportunities or simply made another deal that involved the family residence. Mom accepted each move with patience, determination, and unwavering support. From Linaria to Clyde, to Edmonton, to Grande Prairie, back to Clyde, then to Calgary and finally back to Edmonton, she was the constant that made every new house feel like home. 

We also remember the lessons she taught us every day—often without saying a word. If a chore wasn't done properly, whether it was weeding the garden, raking the lawn or picking raspberries, we were sent back to do it again. Mom believed that anything worth doing was worth doing right, and those lessons stayed with each of us throughout our lives.

 As her family grew, so did her joy. She treasured every opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, delighting in their accomplishments and celebrating every visit. After we had all left home, she embraced new adventures, cycling and hiking through Edmonton's river valley and making special trips to the Rocky Mountains with Sharon. She found peace and happiness in nature’s beauty and simplicity. 

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Brian (Wynne), Lee, Kenneth (Holly), David, and Sharon (Steve) Walsh; her brother, A.J. Hindle; her fifteen cherished grandchildren; seven treasured greatgrandchildren; and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her steadfast friendship and willingness to always be there when she was needed. 

Mom was predeceased by our dad, Bill, in 2025; her brothers, Grant and Bruce; and her parents, A.J. and Bobbi Hindle. 

If there is one thing we will carry with us, it is the example Mom set. She showed us that character is built through hard work, kindness, humility, and perseverance. Those values have become part of who we are, and they are the legacy she leaves to all of us. 

As per Mom’s wishes, we will be holding a private family gathering to honour her long and full life.