Ionia County MI Archives Obituaries.....Christian, Ruth Elizabeth (Baas) 2005
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Sandy Heintzelman sheintz@iserv.net December 3, 2010, 12:37 am

Ionia Sentinel Standard, 11 Jan 2005

Ruth Elizabeth (nee Baas) Christian beloved wife, mother, grandmother and 
friend, died Monday, January 10, 2005.  Diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer 
in August, Ruth faced her disease and death with grace, dignity and a terrific 
sense of humor while savoring every last possible moment with her family and 
friends.

Ruth was born to Richard and Gladys Baas on a farm in Easton County, on Oct. 
31, 1919.  While growing up, she developed her lifelong love for literature and 
poetry.  Ruth went on to obtain an elementary education degree at Western 
Michigan University prior to accepting a teaching position in a one-room school 
with eight grades near Charlotte.  She later worked in public relations for the 
MSU Extension Service and maintained friendships and memories over the years.

Ruth married the love of her life, Richard, 55 years ago in East Lansing on 
August 19, 1949.  The young couple lived in Ann Arbor for 5 years and then in 
1956, moved to Ionia.  A mother and homemaker, Ruth was also very active in the 
Ionia County Memorial Hospital Guild, First United Methodist Church and other 
civic activities.  She enjoyed reading, travel, golf, bridge, going to Lake 
Michigan and was always seeking to spend time with her friends and family.

In addition to her husband, Ruth is survived by her children:  Susan Christian 
of Philadelphia, Penn.; Pastor David (Gerri) Christian of Dorr; Barry (Nora 
Callow) Christian of Grand Rapids; and Brian (Susan) Christian of St. Joseph; 
grandchildren, Anna Rose, Abigail, Elizabeth, Sophie, David, William and Maya; 
her brother Russell (Pat) Baas; nieces and nephews and many wonderful friends 
who will miss her dearly.

Memorial services will be held at First United Methodist Church in Ionia, 11 
a.m. Thursday with Rev. Marty Culver officiating.  Burial will be in Woodland 
Township Cemetery in Barry County at a later date.  The family will receive 
friends and relatives Wednesday, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Lake Funeral Home in 
Ionia.  Those wishing to make an expression of sympathy are urged, in lieu of 
flowers, to make a contribution to either Visiting Nurse Foundation: 1401 Cedar 
NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503; or the Ionia Area Hospice: 117 N. Depot, Ionia, MI 
48846.


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