Submitted by: Dan Rich

Ruth Kathryn Kowals

June 6, 1915 - Nov. 9, 2007

South Bend Tribune 11/14/2007
SOUTH BEND - Ruth Kathryn Kowals, 92, of South Bend, went to heaven Friday evening in the Fountainview Place Nursing Home, Mishawaka, surrounded by her family. Ruth retired as a nurse, graduating from the Indiana University School of Nursing. She worked as a surgical nurse in South Bend and Indianapolis. Ruth was born June 6, 1915, in Madison, Indiana, to Clarence and Elizabeth (Shields) Otter, who preceded her in death.

She married Dr. Chester A. Kowals, DDS, who died June 10, 1980. Surviving are daughters, Barb (David) Vance of Windsor, CO, and Karen Kowals of South Bend; a son, Anthony D. (Mary) Kowals of Niles, MI; grandchildren, Andy Vance of Peoria, IL, Matt Kowals of Chicago, IL, Peter and Tony Kowals of Niles, Michigan. Ruth was a member of Sacred Heart Parish, Notre Dame, the Christ Child Society, Michiana and South Bend Bridge Clubs, Indiana Nurses Association, and the Saint Joseph Hospital Ladies Auxiliary. Her life was devoted to her children, helping others, and being with her faithful companion, Ginger.

A memorial Mass will be held for Ruth at a later date in the Sacred Heart Parish Crypt, Notre Dame. Memorials may be made to the Christ Child Society or to Camp Millhouse. The HICKEY Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 3516 E. Jefferson Blvd., is assisting the family with arrangements.