A Heartfelt Farewell: London Actress and Holocaust Survivor Ruth Posner Passes Away with Husband in Swiss Clinic

Ruth Posner's Final Act: A Love Story Beyond Time

In a poignant farewell that reads like a script from a tragic romance, Ruth Posner, a 96-year-old actress and Holocaust survivor, chose to leave this world alongside her husband, Michael, aged 97, at a Swiss assisted suicide clinic. Their decision, communicated through an email to family members, reflected a mutual understanding that after 75 years together, they simply could not bear the thought of separation.

Ruth and Michael’s email, delivered posthumously, described their shared sentiment of being more existing than living, despite not suffering from terminal illnesses. “By the time you read this,” it began, “we will have shuffled off this mortal coil.” The couple expressed love and gratitude for their long life together, reminiscing about a journey filled with ups and downs, including the loss of their son, Jeremy.

Ruth’s life story is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Warsaw, she survived the Holocaust by escaping the Warsaw Ghetto at just nine years old, living under a false identity for three years. After moving to the UK at 16 without speaking English, she forged a career as a dancer and actress, eventually joining the Royal Shakespeare Company. Her contributions to Holocaust education earned her a British Empire Medal in 2022.

As we reflect on Ruth’s extraordinary journey, we are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the profound bonds of love that can transcend even the most difficult of circumstances.