Ruth Malech died Dec. 4, 2004, at the age of 94.
Ruth Malech died Dec. 4, 2004, at the age of 94.
Ruth was the matriarch of the large Malech family consisting of six children, 14 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren. She was born Ruth Eleanor Stevens on March 31, 1910, to Burt and Addie Berry Stevens on their Coyote Ranch established by her grandfather, Orvis Stevens. Except for a few years early in her marriage, she spent most of her life on that beloved ranch.
She met Earl Malech of Almaden at a dance at Oak Dell Park in 1929. They were married that September, and soon began their family of five boys and one girl. Always active in Coyote events, Ruth served as president of Encinal PTA, and was also active in the Coyote Grange. During the 40s and 50s, she wrote and produced plays for these organizations.
In the 60s she wrote a news column for the Morgan Hill Times called “Coyote Howls,” which was about Coyote happenings. She pursued many interests and hobbies during her lifetime, but her writing talent lasted until she was hospitalized weeks ago. She was especially fond of corresponding with all of her great-grandchildren and enjoyed composing stories and poems for all her family members and friends.
In Ruth’s last few years, she compiled a family history and presented a beautifully bound copy written in her own words to all her children.
Her generosity was widely known, extending from family to many she considered in need. She had much philanthropy, including scholarships given for many years to graduating Live Oak seniors.
Ruth’s greatest joy was her large family, and her house was the meeting hub over the years for family and friends, who never left empty handed or hungry.
She is survived by her sons Burt (Dena) of Gilroy, Paul (Mary) of Morgan Hill, Keith (Serena) of Almaden Valley, Ray (Nancy) of Coyote; daughter Lucille (Matthew) Melot of Coyote; grandchildren Katherine (Rick) Genasci, Patti (Bryan) Hayes, Kenneth (Carleen) Malech, Fred Malech, Robert Malech, Steve (Donna) Malech, Scott (Amy) Malech, Tom (Julie) Malech, Roger (Cera) Malech, Brett (Kristi) Malech, LoriAnn (Dan) Bach, Sande (Randy) Singley, Maverick (Lisa) Malech and Marshall Malech. She also leaves behind 30 great-grandchildren and several nieces.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Earl, in 1993; son Alfred in 2003; and grandson Randy Malech in 1977.
Visitation takes place from 4-7pm on Wednesday, Dec. 8, at Johnson Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that contributions be made to a favorite church or charity.
