Ruth H. Barkan Obituary (1924 - 2018)

Ruth Hoffman Barkan, age 93, passed away on June 1, 2018. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 73 years, Irving Barkan; son William A. (“Billy”) Barkan; parents Harry and Pauline Hoffman; sister Adele Hart; brothers Abraham Hoffman, Heiner Hoffman, and Joseph Hoffman. She is survived by sons Steven M. Barkan and Neal J. Barkan (LeAndra Speaks); grandchildren Josh Barkan (Jessa Hahn), Elliot Barkan (Corinne Hale), Jennifer Barkan, Davida Fernandez-Barkan, and Daniel Fernandez Barkan; great grandson Lukah Barkan; brothers-in-law Philmore Hart and Alan Landy; several nieces and nephews. Ruth graduated from Cleveland Heights High School and earned her college degree at The Ohio State University. She taught elementary education in Cleveland while her husband served overseas in WWII. In 1957, Ruth and Irv moved their family to Columbus, adopting the city as their home and becoming active participants in the community. Ruth was passionate about her family and friends. She enjoyed searching for a bargain and watching Judge Judy. She was a dedicated and beloved mother with a tender touch and a warm heart, but also had a strong sense of justice and firm boundaries. Her boys were taught the difference between right and wrong. Ruth spent many hours volunteering her time to charitable and service organizations such as Wexner Heritage Village and Hadassah. She was a sweet, intelligent, and beautiful person. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Tuesday, June 5, at Epstein Memorial Chapel, 3232 East Main Street, interment will follow at Forest Lawn—Temple Israel section. The family will receive friends at Wexner Heritage House from 2 to 5pm and 7 to 9pm on Tuesday and Wednesday. Kaddish will be recited at 7pm on both days. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the William A. Barkan Memorial Fund at the Columbus Jewish Foundation or the Wexner Heritage House.