Ruth A. Birk Gernat, age 83, passed away on Tuesday, August 6, 2013 in St. Vincent's MC, Bridgeport. Ruth was born in Bridgeport to the late Gustave and Emma (Klein) Birk, and has been a resident of Southport for the past 9 years. Prior to that she lived in Stratford (where she grew up) and Bridgeport (where she raised her children). She was a graduate of Stratford High School and the former Butler Business School. Although she was a stay-at-home Mom most of the time, she also worked part time over the years at Grant's, Read's, and Gimbel's department stores. Ruth was predeceased by her husband, John J. Gernat, who died in July of 1984 and by her two younger sisters, Dorothy Tashlein of Milford and Arlene Helton of Kentucky. Survivors include her daughter, Gail A. Gernat, of Massachusetts and her son, Gary R. Gernat. She also leaves a brother, Robert (Jan) Birk and their two daughters of Maine, her nephew, Eric (Deb) Tashlein and their two daughters of Orange, her niece, Cindy Tashlein, and her son and two grandsons of Milford, her brother-in-law, Harry Tashlein, also of Milford, and nephew, Robert (Lynn) Helton and their children who live in Kentucky. Ruth passed away on a beautiful, warm, sunny, summer day--her favorite time of year--a few days after another nice visit with her daughter. She loved their day trips and always looked forward to going out to lunch and for a ride in the country or to the beach. She also enjoyed travels throughout New England with her sister, Dot, and their friend, Charmaine. Ruth was a very spiritual person with remarkable inner strength. She was also a very kind, sweet lady with a great smile and sense of humor. She will be missed and remembered fondly by many. A special thank you is extended to all her caregivers and friends at Fairview of Fairfield. Your kindness over the years has been greatly appreciated. At Ruth's request calling hours have been omitted and funeral services are private and have been entrusted to the Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place Stratford. If you wish, donations in Ruth's memory can be made to the American Heart Association, your local animal shelter, or to a charity of your choice.