Marjorie Ruth Grainger-Bean

Ruth Grainger-Bean, age 90 passed away on March 22, 2014. Her son, former Chicago Symphony bassoonist, Bruce Grainger, and her past colleagues from the Seattle Symphony are sure to have her chair and music stand waiting. Not only was she a professional cellist but she also was an accomplished needlework artist, plant enthusiast and nationally certified African Violet judge and was much appreciated for her hand dipped chocolates, cheese balls, and apple pies. She was married to Robert Grainger until he passed away in 2007. She later married Jim Bean, a long time violinist and orchestra teacher. They enjoyed making music together first at the Willows Retirement Apartments, then at Emeritus, both in Bellingham. Her daughter Jan Stamey (Bill), granddaughter Emily Stamey, grandson Jeff Stamey (Meredith), son Gary Grainger and grandson Clinton all feel blessed that Jim was in her life the last few years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Carlsen Cello Foundation at www.carlsencellofoundation.org . A celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at Westford Funeral Home at 2 PM on Thursday, May 8th.