A Renton woman known for her fighting spirit died after a seven-and-a-half-year battle with breast cancer.

Ruth Tasca, 52, was featured in the Renton Reporter May 21 as one of many supported by the Susan G. Komen For the Cure.

“She was strong, really strong,” said husband Michael Tasca. “I could never fight that way.”

She died June 4. The Komen relay fundraiser was June 6.

A mother of two, Mrs. Tasca lived with her family in their south Renton home.

She worked as an accountant up until May. She loved being in nature, fly fishing and mushroom picking.

Mrs. Tasca was 44-years-old when first diagnosed with cancer. She took chemotherapy drugs until May.

Her cancer appeared to be improving, but she struggled with the side affects of the treatment.

“Her body couldn’t just take it anymore,” said her mother Ingrid Russell. “We all hoped she could beat it.”

She is survived by her husband, mother, father Robert Russell, sons Michael and David Tasca, and brothers Paul and William Russell.

“She will be so missed, because there is an empty place,” Ingrid said.

Her family is still planning a memorial service.