Submitted by: John C. Monk

Ruth E. Easterday

March 28, 1919 - June 4, 2010
SOUTH BEND - Ruthe Easterday was born to Joseph and Eurdora Stoner on March 28, 1919. She was blessed to spend the last one-and-a-half years of her life lovingly cared for by her son, Craig, and granddaughters, Jeanine Hinsey (Carl) and Robin Norris (Randy). Ruthe is survived by two grandsons, Jerry and Seth Easterday (Gretchen). Seth is a minister and will conduct Ruthe's memorial service. We mourn the loss of Ruthe Easterday (she was born as Ruth Stoner, but decided that Ruthe was a better name), but celebrate the Free Spirit she was and devotion to her family that she displayed. Ruthe was born to be a "flapper," but 10 years too late. She was married to Joe Easterday on October 13, 1940, who passed on August 17, 2006. During those 66 years they had a great time together going to dances at the Elks (members of Lodge 235 for over 50 years). After retirement, they spent three months every winter enjoying the Florida sunshine. She always wanted to ride an ostrich, but that never happened. Maybe God will provide one for her in Heaven. In addition to her immediate family, Ruthe is also survived by 11 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two brothers, Gene Stoner (Sharon) and Dale Stoner (Dorothy). Ruthie was also fortunate to be loved by the following nieces and nephews, Robert Stoner (Judy), Larry Newman (Vicki), Susie Hale (Tony), Bill Stoner (Jim), Connie Sheffield, Tom Stoner (Patti), Randy Stoner (Cindi), Rick Stoner, Cheryl Andert (Gary), Pam Stoner (Janice), Gene Stoner (Cheryl), Shari York (Dan), Tami Voss, Diana Sipe and Nancy May (Mike); plus 35 great-nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Ruthe was pre-deceased by her parents and siblings, Leland Stoner, Lyle (Bob) Stoner, Rowena Stoner, Rhetha (Tete) Newman and Phyllis (Joan) Overmeyer. Ruthe loved life and spread it around to all who knew her. Ruthe could be a bit caustic at times, but you always knew where you stood with her. As age took its toll, her son, Craig, devoted his life to her. When the end of her life drew near, her two granddaughters, Jeanine and Robin, stepped up to the plate and devoted their lives to her. Grandson Seth made many trips from southern Indiana to be with her. Grandson Jerry spent many hours with her as well. Ruthe spent her life supporting her husband, her son and her grandchildren. She was a strong person, fun to be around, and good to the end. She is a loss to all people who have known her. Her immediate and extended family will miss Ruthe, but will forever be impacted by what she brought to our lives. The loss is great, but what we take from her is greater. You go for it, Girl! Joe is in Heaven waiting for you. We will all love and miss you forever "Giraffe." Thank you so much for all the wonderful memories you have given us. Ruthe loved her cats and you could always find at least one or two with her providing laughter, affection and companionship. At the end of the day, Ruthe was a very important part of both the Easterday and Stoner family. We will all miss her, but will forever celebrate her life! Friends may visit with the family from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 8th, in the Bubb Funeral Chapel, 3910 N. Main St. in Mishawaka, where services will be held at 12:30 p.m.