James W. Ruth

West Branch- James W. Ruth, 91, of State Rt. 26, husband of the late Carolyn “Sally” Ruth, passed away at his residence, while surrounded by the care of his loving family and hospice, on Tuesday, April 11, 2023.

James was born on the Ruth family homestead farm, on Flint Town Road, Town of Ava, on April 18, 1931, a son of Clarence and Edna Widrick Ruth. He grew up on Flint Town Road, attending a one room school, before completing his education at West Leyden Central High School. In 1950, Mr. Ruth entered in the service of his country, serving in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, during the Korean Conflict era. While stationed in Germany, he completed his GED. On October 30, 1953, he was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal. Upon returning he attended an auto mechanics trade school through the GI Bill.

After serving his country, James returned to Ava, where he was employed on his family’s farm. On October 15, 1955, James was united in marriage with Carolyn Hicks, at the home of her great-uncle, Rev. C.I Armstrong. The couple settled on the farm they purchased to be their first home in West Branch, where they raised their family and had since lived. Mrs. Ruth, a retiree from Camden Wire Co., passed away on December 2, 2020.

Together the couple operated their dairy farm until 1972, when James began the operation of his saw mill. A man of near genius as a mechanic, he enjoyed repairing farm machinery, cars, and other motorized equipment. For many years Mr. Ruth was employed as a mechanic and truck driver for B.N.K. trucking Company of Stanwix, retiring in 1993.

James greatly enjoyed nature and wildlife, cutting wood and the time he spent in the woods. He enjoyed feeding the birds and squirrels, and was also an avid sportsman and fisherman. He loved traveling with his wife, Carolyn, and for many years the couple spent winters in Lake Wales, Florida.

He is survived by his children: Brian (Tracy) Ruth, Ava, Brenda Carpenter, Chaney, Washington, and Dennis (Kimberly) Ruth, West Branch; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren; his siblings, Alice Nickerson, Lee Center, David Ruth, Taberg, Frances “Tillie” Nickerson, Rome, Betty Lutz, Taberg, and nieces and nephews. Besides his wife he was predeceased by his sister Margaret, and brothers: Richard, Donald, Mark and Karl.

Graveside services for James and Carolyn will be held at a date and time to be announced in Ava Cemetery. There are no calling hours. His arrangements are in care of the Trainor Funeral Home, Inc. 143 Schuyler St. Boonville. Memorial Contributions may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, New York 13413 or to the Disabled American Veterans 344 West Genesee St. Syracuse, New York 13202.