A married couple informed their family members of their passing at a Swiss clinic. Ruth Posner, a Holocaust survivor aged 97, and her husband Michael, 97, who was from the UK, chose to end their lives together due to declining quality of life.
The couple, married for 75 years, sent an email to their loved ones after their passing, expressing their decision to depart this world. They stated that the choice was mutual and made without external influence, as they felt that their diminishing senses and lack of vitality made life mere existence.
Ruth, a Polish Holocaust survivor who evaded capture by pretending to be a Catholic schoolgirl, later pursued a career in dance and acting in the UK. She and Michael, who worked as a chemist, traveled extensively during his employment with Unilever and Unicef.
A tribute was paid to Ruth and Michael by the Campaign Against Antisemitism, acknowledging Ruth’s resilience as a Holocaust survivor and advocate. The Chief Executive of The Holocaust Educational Trust praised Ruth’s courage in sharing her experiences to combat antisemitism and educate younger generations.
Ruth’s impact was noted for her charismatic and warm personality, leaving a lasting impression on all who crossed her path. Her legacy as a survivor and educator will be cherished and remembered.