Rutenbeck, Marian Ruth 1917-2013

RUTENBECK, WALKER, PETERS, GAHN, JANSKY, DUBACH, DOUGHTY

Posted By: Ruth - Volunteer
Date: 3/28/2013 at 20:29:29

Marian Ruth Rutenbeck, 96, of Dewitt died March 1, 2013 at Grand Haven Retirement Community in Eldridge.

Ruth was born February 10, 1917 in Dewitt, Ia., the second daughter of W. H. "Harry" Walker and Myrtle Peters Walker. She married W.L. "Kutch" Rutenbeck on November 22, 1945 at her parent's home. They were married for 53 years. Kutch ran the Rutenbeck Insurance and Real Estate in Dewitt for many years and they were part-owners of Walkers Department Store. He proceeded her in death on March 20, 1998.

Ruth was a member of the DeWitt United Methodist Church, a past president and 70 year member of Chapter BG of P.E.O., DeWitt Hospital Auxillary, the American Legion Auxillary, Delta Delta Delta, and the Alumnae Associations of Stephens College and The University of Iowa. She was a graduate of DeWitt High School, Stephens College, and earned a degree in Economics from The State University of Iowa in 1938.

Ruth was a loyal Hawkeye fan and an ardent music lover, especially big band, swing and jazz. Although she was noted for her cooking, particularly her pies, Ruth's greatest talent was making and maintaining friendships. It is not an exaggeration to say that if you met her you were likely to love and respect her. She was a witty, generous, and loving spirit who touched many lives in her 96 years.

Survivors include three sons, John (Carol) of Burlington, IA., Bill (Suzanne) of Plymouth, MN., and James (Marianne) of Newton, MA. ; grandchildren Lindsay (Travis) Gahn of Longmont, CO., Annika Rutenbeck of Plymouth, MN., Megan (Alex Jansky) Rutenbeck of Arlington, MA., Liza (Matt Dubach) Rutenbeck of Somerville, MA., and Anthony Rutenbeck of Newton, MA.; and great-grandchildren Mallory and Cameron Gahn of Longmont, CO.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her sister Alice Walker Doughty.

Memorials may be made to Dewitt United Methodist Church and Central Performing Arts Committee at DeWitt Central Schools.