Ruth Hanzen
September 1, 1922 - March 2, 2015
Inducted as Life Time Member on June 13, 2015
Ruth Hanzen was a beloved wife to Bob, treasured mother to Laurie and Bruce, dear mother in law to Bill, and loving Nanny to Melanie & Eric, Nathan & Ashley, Bryce, Tristyn, and Jordyn. Ruth was born in Bay City Michigan and left this world in Bay City Texas, there aren’t many who can claim being born and dying in the same city, but different states! Ruth lived her life boldly and enjoyed every moment. After graduating from nursing school in MI she set off to California with her best friend for the adventure of her lifetime! When Ruth’s brother died in WWII, she volunteered to serve as a tribute to him and began a new adventure. She was a 1st LT in the Army and served as an RN in a POW camp in Manila. Ruth had many fond memories of her time in the Army and loved to share them with family and friends! Ruth married Bob and began yet another adventure as a wife and mother. She loved the Girl Scouts and was very active as a Troop leader for her daughter for many years. In the 80s she and Bob retired to Caney Creek and were very active with the VFW and many other organizations- including her beloved Homemakers! It was during the 90s that Ruth and Bob became Santa and Mrs. Claus every year for Christmas. They shared the Christmas spirit with those less fortunate by visiting schools, nursing homes, and other organizations. Each year Ruth would shop for children in need and deliver Christmas presents to them, she truly loved making people happy. At 92 Ruth lost all of her memories- dementia robbed her of many treasures, but she continued to have a beautiful smile and a story to tell to all she met. Ruth didn’t fish much, but she sure could cook up fried fish like no other- she often spent her weekends cooking seafood in every shape and fashion for her family. She would be deeply honored to be remembered by such an amazing cause that is very dear to all of our hearts.
In sincere gratitude,
The Hanzen, Lubbers, and Owens families