Ruth (Brandstein) Erlich

WORCESTER – Ruth (Brandstein) Erlich, age 88, died peacefully on Friday, January 24, 2025, at the home of her son Michael, surrounded by the loving presence of her family.

Ruthie was born in Hamburg, Germany in 1936, the middle daughter of Solomon and Esther (Riesel) Brandstein. In February of 1939, Ruth and her sisters Rita and Helen, accompanied by their mother, fled Germany on the S.S. Washington, one of the last ships to depart the port of Hamburg before the formal declaration of World War II. Miraculously, after arriving at Ellis Island they were met by Solomon, their family reunited.

Ruth married her beloved husband Alfred “Al” Erlich in 1961. Ruth and Al settled in Dudley where they raised their sons, eventually moving to Worcester in 2005. They shared 49 years together before Al’s passing in 2010.

Ruthie was the consummate entertainer, hosting family Thanksgivings, holidays and many parties, giving her the opportunity to share her latest culinary creations. Family meant everything to her, relishing every event and occasion with her grandchildren.

Ruth will be lovingly missed and remembered by her devoted sons, Michael H. Erlich of Worcester and Mark A. Erlich and his wife, Kimberly of Webster; her cherished grandchildren, Tia, Jack, Arieanna and Jesse Erlich; her sister-in-law, Laura Erlich; her many nieces and nephews; and dear friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Alfred S. Erlich, her sisters, Rita Wahle and Helen Chase, and her brother-in-law, Jesse Erlich.

Family gathered for a private graveside service at B’nai Brith Cemetery in Worcester. Arrangements are in the care of Miles Funeral Home of Holden.

In appreciation of the compassion and care Ruth received during her final days, Memorial Donations may be made to The Jewish Healthcare Center Hospice, 629 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA 01609 ( www.jhccenter.org/make-a-donation/ ).