CHICAGO and Limerick are mourning the loss of one of its great characters in Ruth Di Girolamo who sadly passed away at the weekend following a short illness.
The former economist in the Windy City, Ruth and her husband Bob became notable and famous faces on the Limerick food scene when the American duo opened their unique cafe on High Street.
Delivering the most famous American breakfast in the city for 11 years, Ruth and Bob won accolades and awards as well as the hearts of the community who flocked there regularly.
Hosted with wit, a unique charm and the ever-present banter and turn of phrase, “Ruth’s”, as it was sometimes known to some, became a mini institution where the excellent breakfasts and lunch options were only bettered by the endless refills of coffee.
An often sought after treat was the annual Thanksgiving lunch at the High Street cafe which left the lucky numbers delighted with the real American treats and more disappointed having not secured a priori booking.
After 11 years at the helm of their Irish American Dream, Ruth and Bob moved their business to the Ennis Road where they opened a bakery supplying locals with the finest baked goods.
This Sunday however, Ruth sadly passed away at the University Hospital Limerick following a short illness and the in turn Social Media reacted with tributes and memories.
Ruth Di Girolamo, will repose at Griffins Funeral Home on Tuesday evening and the Chicago native will be laid to rest this Wednesday at Castlemungret Cemetery following her requiem mass at noon in St Nessan’s Church Raheen.
andrew@limerickpost.ie
