Obituary of Ruth Hollis Fogel

Ruth Hollis Fogel passed away peacefully in her home on September 15, 2023, at the age of 90 with her family by her side. Ruth was born in Buffalo, NY on March 3, 1933, to Eleanor Chittenden Baham and Charles R. Baham Jr, and she was raised in Buffalo and in Lily Dale, NY.

After attending the University of Buffalo, she made her way to Southern California where she was part-owner of a dance studio. In the early 70’s she and her family moved to the Santa Cruz area, where she raised four children while working for the Bell Telephone System, initially as an operator before retiring as an inspector in their business office.

Ruth was an accomplished Ballet, Ballroom, and Tap dancer. She and her late husband Herb met while dancing and were both expert Square and Round dancers. Together they opened Round dancing clubs in Santa Cruz as well as teaching dancing.

In Montevalle, Ruth enjoyed participating in the community including the Women’s Club, the Entres Nous club, Newcomers Club, as well as several dancing and exercise classes.

Ruth is survived by her children Linda Dalton, Anna Lee Clemens, and Mitchell Ehrgott; her five grandchildren; and six great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Herbert Fogel, daughter Christy Drewry, and grandson Craig Douglas Ehrgott.

Ruth was laid to rest on September 20, 2023 at the Home of Peace Jewish Cemetery. Ruth left a legacy of love for family, friends, nature, and beloved pets. She will be greatly missed.

We’d like to thank Santa Cruz Hospice for their unwavering and compassionate help and support in Ruth’s final months. In leu of flowers, donations in her honor can be made to Santa Cruz Hospice.