Ruth Wilson, 90, passed away Friday morning, November 23rd, at the Hospice House of Laramie. She was born December 1, 1927 in Brookings, SD to Harriett Frances (Nee Wheeler) and Weert Saathoff. They moved often as Ruth and her sister Fran grew up. Their father was part of the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Ruth attended the University of Wyoming. She acted as docent for the Ivinson House, which served as a school-home for girls whose families lived on remote ranches. Ruth graduated U.W. in 1948, cum laude. She received a fellowship to the University of Denver School of Social Work, with field placements at the Florence Crittenden Home for Unwed Mothers and the Family Services Center. She then went on to attend St. Margaret’s house, the west coast training center for women pursuing a career in Christian Education, at Church Divinity School of the Pacific.
There she became reacquainted with Howard Wilson whom she’d met in Laramie. They were married June 11, 1952. Upon Howard’s graduation, the couple moved back to Wyoming, where he served as curate of St. Mark’s, Casper; Vicar of St. Thomas’s, Dubois and St. Helen’s, Crowheart; Archdeacon of Wyoming; began the new mission, St. Stephen’s, Casper, and ultimately became Dean of St. Matthew’s Cathedral, Laramie.
While in Laramie, Ruth completed a Master’s in elementary education, teaching third grade at Whiting school, along with raising three daughters, and all the duties required of a minister’s wife.
In December 1982, Howard accepted a call to St. Andrew’s, Grove, OK; and St. John’s, Vinita, OK. They loved living on a lake, taking up sailing, and they began traveling extensively. Ruth spent time substitute teaching and as an ombudsman at several assisted care facilities. She made lovely quilts. In 2012, they returned to Laramie.
Preceding Ruth was her husband, Howard, her parents, and sister, Fran, and niece, Jema. She is survived by Mary & Beau Johnson, Denton, TX; Margaret Wilson & Neil Humphrey, Laramie; Cheryl & Doug Baker, Laramie; granddaughter Jessica Stalder and great-grandson, Bear; Laramie; grandchildren Kyle & Allie Johnson, and Brenna & Josef Christman, all of the Dallas area; nieces Sue Paustian and Jan Jarvis and their families.
Ruth’s funeral service will be held at St. Matthew’s Cathedral, 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 27. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Laramie; Interfaith Good Samaritan, Laramie; or the Episcopal Relief and Development Fund.
Hello Nancy, Thank you for the lovely note -- and I remember you and your mother (and Sue, of course). We had amazing mothers! Margaret
Judy and I were saddened to learn of the loss of your mother. She was a quietly gracious lady and was much admired. She left quite a legacy in you three. Much love to you in this difficult time.
Thank you so much, Judy and Sarah. Our best to you all. Margaret
Deepest condolences and much love to you, Margaret, Mary and Cheryl - with warmest memories of Ruth and your dad, both of whom were cherished parts of childhood in Laramie.
Thank you so much, Martha. Both of my parents were so fond of your family -- very special people all around!
I was so sorry to read of Ruth's passing, I met her when she and Howard became my mom's next door neighbors at the Regency. She had such a light, kind spirit, and a happy smile whenever I saw her. What a wonderful photograph of the young Ruth, she was so beautiful! My sincere condolences to the Wilson family.