Ruth Goldschmidt (nee Herz), of Owings Mills, MD, formerly of Kew Gardens, NY, passed away on Wednesday, December 30th, 2020 at the age of 98.
Ruth Goldschmidt lived a full and meaningful life. She was born in Holzheim, Germany and lived there until she was 16. Shortly after Kristallnacht she left on the Kindertransport and never saw her family again; her mother, grandfather, and many other relatives all perished. Initially she went to Belgium and then spent the majority of the war years in Southern France, part of a group known as “The Children of LaHille.” She survived nine years on the run, in hiding, in a displaced persons camp, and then, after making connections with cousins in the U.S., arrived in New York on November 1st, 1947, built herself a good life. She met her husband Arthur Goldschmidt on a blind date that blossomed into their beautiful marriage on August 27, 1950. She would want to be remembered for her devotion to Arthur and the love she shared with her daughters and grandchildren.
Ruth was an amazing role model and spoke openly and publicly about her history. Her greatest joy was that she and Arther were able to build a beautiful Jewish family. She is survived by her beloved daughters, Toni Greenberg, and Leah Katz; grandchildren, Miriam Greenberg, and Cantor Jacob Greenberg; and caretaker, Mavis Duku. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Arthur Goldschmidt; son-in-law, David Greenberg; and parents, Lily and Eugen Herz.
Ruth proudly worked as a nurse at Kew Gardens General Hospital for 20 years but never lost her giving spirit. She volunteered after her retirement for 25 years as a reading tutor at her local elementary school. Her passion for helping to care for others and foster their education shined as one of her true gifts. She generously gave her time to many Jewish organizations including Forest Hills Jewish center, and being actively engaged in Beth Israel congregation.
Ruth will be missed by everyone who knew her, for her love, generosity, and her delicious butter cookies. May her memory be a blessing.