Beautiful Memories
It was with great sadness that we learnt of the passing of our dear friend, Ruth Markan, earlier this year. Ruth and her husband, Marcel, have been members at CA, Ewell since January 2022, during which time Ruth bravely endured the struggles of her progressing Alzheimer’s condition.
After Ruth died, Marcel had the idea of commissioning a painting in her memory. He wanted it to contain some of the many things she loved.
In his own words below, Marcel explains how he came to commission the painting and what it means to him….
One of my daughters had a painting in her lounge from Carla Jacobsen. I always liked that painting, so I chose Carla for the project, sending her a copy of my Eulogy to Ruth by way of introduction. From there on we worked together, not only agreeing the content, but also amending the painting right up to its completion.
Carla had never done a painting in memory of someone before, but she readily agreed to take it on board. I am very pleased indeed with the final outcome, which is a beautiful, positive reminder of my wife of 52 years. It has certainly helped me in my grief.
So what do the images mean?
Ruth loved seeing Florida sunsets, with their myriad of colours. We often walked along the beach there, simply watching the sun go down. The 2 large candles are not only symbolic of light and hope, but they are a key part of welcoming in the Sabbath.
Next to them are 3 letters – Ruth’s name in Hebrew. Below the heart is a depiction of a family, maybe our close family.
Ruth believed in angels, so the blue and white angel wings were a must. Further right is a Chanukiah, like a candelabra, that is a key part of the Jewish festival of Chanukah with its themes of light, hope, and fortitude.
Near the bottom right of the painting stands a tree – the tree of life. Ruth loved trees and we often visited a local park, where one particular redwood tree was her favourite. Trees are important in Judaism environmentally, but also because the tree of life is mentioned in the Bible.
Marcel Markan, Ewell group member
