George Allen Ruth

Message from David Wishowsky

I am a graduate of Claymont HS, Class of 75. Allen Ruth was my Art teacher. He was a great teacher and I have many fond rememberances. He was one of my favorite teachers and had a definite impact on my life.
I recently started wotking for the Brandywine School District and when I am at the old Claymont HS site I think sbout Mr Ruth.

A candle was lit by Glenn Anderson on April 15, 2017 9:09 PM

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Mrs Ruth and anyone that knew Mr Ruth,
As many of us were, I was heartbroken over hearing about Allen's passing. Allen was such a huge part of my life. He opened my eyes to literally the world. Allen and Debbie took us to Europe, cruises and the famous trips to New York and Philadelphia for props and costumes for our plays. And the plays, there are no words other than fantastic!
I am very sad because just a few weeks ago I spoke to someone saying we should look up Allen and go visit.

Debbie, I think of you often and love you just the same. If you read this please feel free to reach out to me I would love to visit.

Rest in peace Allen, you changed so many kids lives with your trust, kindness, love and respect. You are a very loved man. I love you and thank you for changing my life.

Glenn Anderson

Message from Lorraine DesJardien

Mrs. Allen. I only had a short time with your husband at Immaculatta. I enjoyed his classes very much. I hummed the whole time I would be working. I learned a lot from him. I am so sorry for you and your family that he passed from your life. At least he did not suffer a long battle with that terrible cancer. Our class prayed for him, that his soul rests with the Lord and for you to help you through this tough time. Lorraine

Message from Mickey Kaplan

At age sixty-two, Allen taught, and motivated me in our life-time learning program. He encouraged me, and tried to convince me that had artistic talent. There are fifteen framed watercolors in my house that I credit solely to him. I had never picked up a paint brush prior to that. Now I can look at these paintings every day and think of a very special person. What a legacy.

A candle was lit by LouAnn Simmons Wagner on April 11, 2017 1:39 AM

Message from Ellie Kwick

Dear Debbie,
I'm so sorry about the loss of Allen. Many of us were always hoping that somehow, some way, we could resurrect one of those Broadway shows we did at Claymont High and do it "one more time". Working with Allen, Bunny Buzby and playing the piano for all the kids on those shows was one of the highlights of my life. I loved every minute. Allen had a way of seeing a spark of talent in a student and causing it to shine. And the sets he designed for the shows were incredible. They were works of art, like going to a museum. A truly talented man.
As for the trips that Allen took with the students, all three of my children went with him to Europe and every year to New York. They had the time of their lives on those trips.
God bless you, Debbie. Thank you for sharing Allen with all of us at Claymont High.
Ellie Kwick

Message from Susan Wolf

Mr Ruth was an amazing teacher, our favorite at Claymont High School, he was lovable, funny, and firm when needed, his catch phrase "wrong" was something that made us all laugh, u will be missed. You made a difference in all students that knew u, much love and peace until we meet again.

Message from Craig Ewing

Mrs. Ruth,
I was so sorry to hear of Mr. Ruth's passing. Words seem little healing in your time of grief, but I wanted to at least let you know that Mr. Ruth and Mr. Chipman were my two favorite teachers at CHS (the arts and music), even though I actually ended up with a PhD in Engineering... So many great memories that I have from him. From the awesome and inspiring trips he took us on to NYC to explore theatre and city culture, to his artistic talents in both art and the theatre, to even allowing us to make soft pretzels in the pottery kiln to raise money, he was the best! Truly cared about his students and related to them on a level not many teachers can. Some of my best memories at CHS (Class of 82) involve activities with Mr. Ruth. I have lived in Florida for the past 30 years and I have not seen him or you but a few times since graduation, but he will always be remembered by me and the thousands of students he had a bond with over his career.. He introduced me to the joy of musical theatre and I have been doing community theatre in Florida for the past 30 years. It remains a passion of mine, simply love it!. I actually just finished directing Spamalot three weeks ago and had even mentioned to some of my cast about our trips in HS with my art teacher and what we used to do. God's speed to you Mrs. Ruth. I will always remember your husband and he remains an inspiration to me still today.

Message from Lynn Massado

Mrs Ruth , although words seem inadequate at this sad time please know that you are being thought of and prayed for that you might find comfort in your memories of a very kind man. With deepest condolences, Lynn Massado and Franklin West (Sparkle Cleaning Service)