The benefactor of the Allen Sapp Gallery has passed away in Vancouver.
Friday, the staff of the Allen Sapp Gallery and the City of North Battleford issued a news release stating they are deeply saddened and extend their sincere condolences to Ruth Gonor’s son and daughter on the passing of their mother Monday.
In 1988, shortly after the death of her husband, Dr. Allan Gonor, Ruth Gonor made a significant donation to the City of North Battleford consisting of 80 original paintings by world-renowned Cree artist Allen Sapp. This donation formed the basis of the Allen Sapp Gallery’s collection, now known as the Gonor Collection.
Since then, Ruth Gonor has continued to support the gallery through contributions and additional donations which have substantially grown the collection to several hundred pieces of art.
“Dr. Gonor and Ruth Gonor played a significant role in the history of North Battleford and her passing is a great loss to our community and to the gallery,” says Leah Garven, curator and manager of the galleries with the City of North Battleford. “The Gonors were great supporters of the arts as it was their vision and desire to establish a world-class art gallery in North Battleford to feature the art of Allen Sapp. Through their dedication and vision they were able to bring worldwide attention to North Battleford by aiding in the exposure of Allen’s art and the development of his career.”
The Gonors were also avid art enthusiasts collecting art from around the world, including works by other Canadian artists.
“Ruth’s generosity and kindness had a significant impact on all those that worked at the Allen Sapp Gallery. Her actions inspired us to realize that a person can make a positive and influential difference in a community and in our world,” says Garven. “Her actions have demonstrated that through dedication to your community and the generosity of our time to others, a creative sense of vision, and determination to fulfill that vision, our actions can serve a greater purpose.”
Ruth Gonor, who passed away May 25, is survived by her son, Dr. Saul Gonor, daughter, Lisa Gonor, and extended family.
She was born on Jan. 4, 1926 in Winnipeg, Man. to Charles and Esther Brook. She was raised in Winnipeg and attended the University of Manitoba where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, followed by a Bachelor of Social Work. She married Dr. Allan Gonor in 1949 and they made North Battlleford their home from 1953 until 1997 at which point Ruth relocated to Vancouver.
