ROXBURY- Ruth M. (Mayernik) Bower-Gasser, daughter of the late George and Anna (Liptak) Mayernik, went home in the arms of the Lord February 12, 2009.

She was born September 19, 1916 in Bridgeport, CT. She was proud of her heritage and attended schools in Bridgeport and later moved to Roxbury.

As a young woman, she showed her musical talent, playing piano in the silent movies. She continued her musical abilities as church organist for many years. She was member of the American Organist Guild. She showed her community spirit and volunteered as chairman of the American Red Cross, Roxbury Chapter for years, as well as organizing the swimming program for Roxbury children at Lynn Deming Park at Lake Candlewood. She headed a committee to send boxes to servicemen at Christmas, along with the help of several church members. She was extremely proud that she was the first woman truck driver for the Connecticut Department of Transportation before her retirement.

She is survived by her daughter, Suzanne LeDoux and husband Jeffrey of Wilton, ME; grandchildren: Christine LeDoux, Marian Howe, husband Dustin, Jonathan Hope, wife Cindy of Loxahatchee, FL, William Hope, wife Valerie of Pompano Beach, FL; Christopher Hope, wife Elena of Delray Beach, FL; five great grandchildren, Heather, Nicole, Jacqueline, Joshua and Alyssa Hope. Also, several nieces and nephews.

Location: Munson-Lovetere Southbury

Services: The funeral will be held on Monday at Christ Episcopal Church, Roxbury at 2 p.m.

Visitation: Calling hours will be held on Sunday from 4-6 p.m. at the Southbury Funeral Home of Munson-Lovetere, 235 Main St. North.