Longtime Banner Writer Dies

Ruth Donker, a Banner news correspondent in California for 25 years, passed away at the age of 85.

Donker was a prolific writer, submitting more than 500 articles during the years she covered the western states. In addition to writing for The Banner, she published six devotional books and a memoir.

She was also active in her local church, teaching catechism for more than 20 years. Former students recall receiving homemade cakes from her on their birthdays.

Donker died Oct. 19, 2008, after a long battle with cancer.