Ruth Louise Ohlsen, 87, a resident of St. Joseph's Nursing Home, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Utica. Ruth was born March 20, 1921 in Brooklyn, the daughter of Obe and Louise (Rosen) Olsen. She was raised and educated in Staten Island. Ruth devoted her life to being a nanny for many families in the Staten Island and NYC areas. These families thought of Ruth as a family member as she cared for many of the children from birth right up to college. In 1976, Ruth moved to the Utica area. Although she was no longer employed as a nanny, she became very active in the community with organizations as well as activities she hadn't had time for in the past. She volunteered for the American Red Cross for over 30 years; she was an active member of a program at NY Presbyterian Hospital promoting eye research; she was a member of the Eastern Star; she volunteered for the American Diabetes Association, taking part in many local fundraisers; she was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Utica. In her later years, Ruth became interested in the Upstate Home for Children. She also took up tap dancing while in her 70's. Animals were a priority in Ruth's life. She would choose her home based on whether or not her dogs or cats were allowed. Ruth will be missed by all who knew her. Ruth is survived by three sisters and one brother, Grace Cruz, Florida, Jan Kelley-Cassey, Massachusetts, Elsie Olsen, Utica, Ralph Olsen, Bridgewater. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by a brother, Roy Olsen in 1995. Ruth Ohlsen's funeral service will be held Thursday, August 14, 2008 at 10:00 am at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica. Interment will take place in West Winfield Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to call at the funeral home on Thursday, from 9 - 10 am prior to the funeral service.