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Ruth Ketchum

April 28, 2016
Bloomingdale, MI

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Ruth Evonne Ketchum passed away at age 86, in Bloomingdale, Michigan, surrounded by family last Thursday, April 28, 2016. Ruth was born in Gobles, Michigan, June 18, 1929, to the late Bessie and Thomas Ketchum. She was preceded in death by her five brothers, Harry, Walter, Howard (Rusty) Sterling (Stub) and Kay Ketchum. She was a beloved aunt of 14 nieces and nephews: Marianne, Mark, Harry, Barb, Kim, (the late) Tim, Jill, Mike, Patrick, Jody, Pat, Jean, Amy and Debbie and many beloved great nieces and nephews. Ruth belonged to Phoenix Community Church and many in the congregation were dear friends. She was a proud member of PFLAG and participated in the Pride Parade yearly. Ruth graduated from Gobles Grade School, Gobles High School, then attended Western Michigan University. She worked for many years at Upjohn Company. She was an expert Upjohn Guide and enjoyed explaining the manufacturing operation to tourists from across the country and around the world. Ruth loved the outdoors. She loved sports and played competitive fast pitch softball as a catcher with the Brodys. She loved tennis and avidly followed the Detroit Tigers and Michigan State and Michigan sports teams. Ruth loved animals, especially her dogs, Kit, Frosty, Shadow, Missy, Major, Momma, and Dolly. She was a skilled birder and passed along her love and knowledge of birds to her late sister-in-law, Marie Ketchum, her niece Jean, and many others. Ruth, a lifelong Southwestern Michigander, traveled extensively to Florida, Arizona, Hawaii, Alaska, and Australia. Ruth lived for the last few years at Evergreen North Apartments in Kalamazoo where she had many dear friends. Prior to the move she lived for over 20 years in the Paw Paw farm home on Ketchum Hill that has been in her family for over a 100 years. Ruth was grateful that her beloved great nephew John and Erin now lovingly make it their home. Ruth had a particular knack for making and nurturing friends. Her many friends returned these gifts in kind. She greatly appreciated the many who visited and comforted her with conversation, prayer and song during her final days. In a final act of generosity Ruth donated her body to Western Michigan University Medicine. A special thank you to the healthcare workers and hospice for their compassion and expertise. There will be a service for Ruth on May 5, 2016, at Gobles United Methodist Church 210 E Exchange St, Gobles, MI 49055. Visitation will start at 1PM, the service will start at 2PM, and luncheon will follow the service. Donations in Ruth's honor to Phoenix Community Church appreciated.