Ruth Schwendler, 92, died last May in the same way that she lived, quietly and without notoriety. However, it turns out the Eggertsville woman, who cut coupons and bought things on sale, left behind $2 million for Canisius and D'Youville Colleges.
The money came mostly from interest gained on War Bonds bought during World War II.
Even though Schwendler never attended either college, or had any direct connection to the colleges, her will specifies that the money be used to help students who would otherwise not be able to attend the schools.
Schwendler never married and had no children. Her long-time friend and executrix of the will, Dolores Hufnagel, said she had no idea that her friend had so much money because Schwendler lived a simple life.
7 Eyewitness News Reporter Ed Reilly talked with Hufnagel and the colleges about the gift.
Watch Ed's report to learn more.
