A deeply devoted couple, who were inseparable, peacefully passed away at a Swiss assisted dying facility after informing their loved ones via email about their decision. Michael Posner, aged 97, and his wife Ruth, aged 96, were not suffering from any terminal illness but chose to end their lives together to avoid being apart following 75 years of marriage.
Residing in Belsize Park, north London, the couple sent a heartfelt message to their family and friends, explaining their joint passing. The email expressed their mutual decision, emphasizing that it was made without external influence. They highlighted their long and fulfilling life together, acknowledging the challenges they faced in their later years.
Ruth, a Holocaust survivor, received tributes for her resilience and dedication to educating others about her experiences. Chief Executive of The Holocaust Educational Trust, Karen Pollock CBE, praised Ruth for her extraordinary journey from surviving the atrocities of the Radom Ghetto to becoming a beacon of inspiration for combating antisemitism.
Arriving in the UK at the age of 16 after escaping the Warsaw ghetto, Ruth overcame immense hardships to pursue a career in dance and theatre. Despite the language barrier upon her arrival, she excelled in her artistic pursuits and left a lasting impact on those she encountered.
In 1950, Ruth married Michael, a British chemist, and together they explored the world, embracing diverse cultures and experiences. Ruth’s legacy as a talented performer and a resilient survivor continues to inspire those who knew her.