In Memorium – Sue Ruka

February 10, 2025

We are saddened to announce the passing of long-time VNHCH board member Sue Ruka. We share her full obituary below. She had asked that donations be made to our organization in lieu of flowers. Please join us in recognizing her for a lifetime of serving our community.

Susan Marie Ruka

May 4, 1955 – January 26, 2025

Susan Marie Ruka, a beloved daughter, sister, friend, mentor, and advocate, passed away on January 26, 2025, after facing ovarian cancer with dignity and grace. Born in Boston, MA, on May 4, 1955, she moved to Madison, NH, in 1982, where she built a life filled with purpose, compassion, and community service.

Sue was the daughter of the late Albinas and Mary Ruka, with Mary passing this past November. She is survived by her devoted sister, Sandy Ruka, RN, MSN, and by her cherished sisters of the heart, Pat Poirier and Dale Smith-Kenyon; and Dale’s husband, Jack. Sue found immense joy in spending time with Emilee Kenyon and her children, Vadik, Piper, and Levi Newcomb. She is also survived by Jim Mathisen, whom she considered a brother, her lifelong friend Gretchen Lindbeck of California, and her loving uncles and aunts, Henry and Rosemarie Sartor of Riverside, CA, and Ed and Marie Ruka of Massachusetts.

Sue’s career in nursing spanned over four decades at Memorial Hospital in North Conway, NH. She served in many capacities, from nursing supervisor to administrator of the Merriman House nursing home and later in Population Health. Her passion for elder care and advocacy for aging adults led her to pursue advanced education, earning her Master’s and Doctorate from Boston College in 2003. Her doctoral thesis focused on the power of reminiscence therapy for individuals with cognitive impairments, reflecting her deep commitment to enhancing the lives of older adults.

Throughout her career, Sue mentored generations of nursing and clinical professionals, leaving an indelible mark on the healthcare community. She was an instrumental force in numerous organizations, including Carroll County Public Health, the Mt. Washington Valley Health Collaborative, the board of the Continuum Foundation, Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice of Carroll County, and as Chair of the NH State Commission on Aging. One of her greatest achievements was helping to develop and open the Mt. Washington Valley Adult Day Center in Center Conway, NH, a testament to her unwavering dedication to elder care.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sue was known for her warmth, humor, and generous spirit. She found joy in her gardens, her pets, and her passion for greyhound adoption, welcoming retired racing greyhounds into her home. Her love of knitting brought her comfort and creativity, often crafting sweaters with care. She was an avid traveler to Disney World, embracing its magic with her signature Disney bling. She also loved the water, with Monhegan Island and Lake Winnipesaukee two of her favorite destinations. 

Sue faced her final illness with courage and resilience, supported by the compassionate care of Debbie Haynes, Marie Olson, Audrey Russell, Maureen Cahill, Margaret Robertson, and many others at VNHCH, as well as her dear friends Cynthia Holloran and Dixie Lea, who all made it possible for her to remain at home until her passing.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sue’s memory to Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice of Carroll County. A memorial service for Sue and her mother, Mary, will be held in the spring, honoring their lives and the love they shared with those around them.

Sue was a remarkable woman who brought light, laughter, and love to all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, dedication, and service will live on in the hearts of many.