Ruth O’Neill (Porter) Gee

  Ruth O’Neill Porter Gee, 76, of East Jordan, died on Friday, March 7, 2025, at Grandvue Medical Care Facility, East Jordan.

  She was born on January 1, 1949, in Petoskey, the daughter of William Alden and Esther Margaret (O’Neill) Porter.  She lived all her life in East Jordan aside from a small stint in the Flint/Montrose areas.   

  Ruth graduated from East Jordan High School in 1967 and then attended Alma College.

  On August 30, 1969, she married Carl Gee and made their home in East Jordan.

  Ruth had worked, for some time, at Glen’s Market in East Jordan, where she made many lifelong friends.

  She spent the majority of her career working for East Jordan Public School in various positions. She so loved her coworkers and more importantly the young people she had the pleasure of interacting with.  Ruth made a positive impact on many students she worked with..

  Ruth had been a member of the Boyne Valley Catholic Community, an Elder of the East Jordan Presbyterian Church, board member of the East Jordan Library and board member of the Bergmann Center.  She was dedicated to serving the local area and residents in the best way possible.  Ruth served many years as a commissioner for the City Council of East Jordan.

  She was very witty, funny and quick thinking! Ruth had a great sense of humor. 

  Ruth was a wonderful “story teller” and a cheater at cards.  She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially her children and grandchildren, sisters, nieces and nephews!   

   She loved traveling and taking Sunday morning rides!

   Ruth is survived by her daughter, Patricia Gee (Brian Crawford) of Bloomfield Hills; son, James (Amy) Gee of Gaylord; five grandchildren, Katelyn Hellebuyck, Nicole Hellebuyck, Emily Hellebuyck, Liam Gee and Vera Gee; two sisters, Mary Jason and Jane (Steve) Duperon; as well as many nieces and nephews.  She was proceeded in death by her  husband, Carl Gee;  her parents, Bill and Esther Porter; a sister, Patricia (Porter) Bloom; two brothers-in law, Carl Bloom and Dennis Jason; and one niece, Lisa Bloom. 

  A memorial mass will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 2347 Grove Street, Boyne Falls, MI 49713.

  Memorial contributions may made to Challenge Mountain (Recreation), Challenge Mountain, PO Box 764, Boyne City, MI 49712 or  the E.J. Train Restoration Fund via the East Jordan Historical Society.  Please make checks payable to E.J. Train Restoration Fund and direct checks to Charlevoix State Bank.

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