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Memorial gathering June 8 at 2 p.m. at Desert View Tower
East County News Service
May 31, 2019 (Jacumba) -- Local icon "Mountain Man" Dennis Ruth passed away May 23rd after a battle with cancer. He spent his early years in Santee, and the rest of his life in the high desert community of In Ko Pah, near Jacumba.
His stone cabin became a hidden local treasure which took him 30 years to build and where he lived without electricity with his dogs and mule named Big John.
Ruth built over 200 houses over his career as a mason and construction worker, and several adobe houses.
He was also a leader in the Jacumba Hikers and Walkers group, leading residents and visitors along local trails to discover rugged canyons and scenic mountain vistas in the high desert terrain.
He leaves behind a large loving family and many children, his own and many local children who considered him a father figure. He had countless friends who will miss him.
A memorial gathering is planned at the Desert View Tower for Saturday June 8 at 2 p.m. complete with storytelling, potluck, taco truck and photo board; please bring a picture to share along with a chair and beverage.
See details on flyer below:
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