| Ruth Bascom | |
|---|---|
| Mayor of Eugene, Oregon | |
| In office 1993–1996 |
|
| Preceded by | Jeff Miller |
| Succeeded by | Jim Torrey |
| Personal details | |
| Born | February 4, 1926 Ames, Iowa |
| Died | August 26, 2010 Springfield, Oregon |
| Spouse(s) | John Bascom |
Ruth Bascom (February 4, 1926 - August 26, 2010) was an American politician who served as the first female Mayor of Eugene, Oregon from 1993 until 1996.[1]
As Mayor, Bascom worked to revitalize downtown Eugene. The Riverbank Trail System, which extends for twelve miles through the city along the Willamette River, is named for her.[2]
On August 15, 2010, Bascom was the passenger of a car driven by her husband, John Bascom.[1] Bascom reportedly fell asleep at the wheel and struck several trees and large boulders on U.S. Route 395 near Burns, Oregon.[1] Ruth Bascom suffered major injuries in the accident and was hospitalized.
Ruth Bascom died from a stroke and injuries sustained in the accident on August 26, 2010, at the age of 84.[1][2] She was survived by her husband and six children.[2]