Margaret "Ruth" Bys, 91 of Hallmark Care Center , died Thursday, November 5, 2009 at Mercy Medical Center . As per Ruth's wishes, a private family inurnment will be at a later date in Czech National Cemetery . There will be no visitation or services. Brosh Chapel in Cedar Rapids is charge of arrangements.

Ruth was born June 21, 1918 on the farm in rural Linn County , the daughter of Ludvik and Julia (Cerveny) Petrak. She married William E. Bys on October 12, 1938. Ruth was active in the Linn County Farm Bureau and was a 4-H leader for many years. She enjoyed cooking and gardening. Bill and Ruth loved to go to dances throughout the area and listen to polkas. She was very proud of her Czech heritage. They enjoyed wintering for many years in Apache Junction, Arizona as well as the cabin on the Cedar River .

Ruth is survived by her children, Carlyle Bys of Bertram, Thiara Smith of Bettendorf , Barbara Michael of San Antonio , Texas , Ramona Thompson of Austin , Texas , and William Bys Jr. of Sutliff, and many grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, greatgreatgrandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William E., two brothers and three sisters.

Memorials may be directed to the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library.