Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 17 at St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church in Edmonds/Lynnwood, where Ruth was an active member for 49 years. Visitation will be at 10:00 am. The memorial service will take place at 11:00 am with Pastor Flath officiating, followed by a lunch reception. Interment will be at 2:00 at Floral Hills Cemetery in Lynnwood.
Known as “Dutch” to many of her friends, Ruth could often be found dancing in 6-inch heels at Normanna or the Sons of Norway. Known as “Cookie Grandma” to her grandchildren, she was an amazing baker which sometimes prompted family conflicts over who would get the last cookie, brownie, roll, or slice of pie. She was loving, resilient, funny, and thoughtful. In the face of loss, she set a brave example of grace and fortitude that we will never forget.
Ruth was born in Eau Claire, Wisconsin to Hans Osterud and Emma Larson on June 4, 1923. She graduated from high school in 1942 and over the years worked at Boeing, Seattle Seafood, and was a farm wife. She was a member of the Sons of Norway, Teamsters Union, and Eagles Aerie No. 172.
Ruth is preceded in death by husbands Charles Zilko and Kenneth Walker, her twins Rodney Zilko and Renee Hein, and stepson Dennis Walker.
Ruth is survived by her stepdaughter Kathleen Morgan, grandchildren Rachelle (and James) Lee, Jeremy Morgan, Traci (and Jason) Mortrud, Kayla (and Michal) Zilko Cleman, Colleen (and Joseph) Zilko Smith, and many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and other adoring family and friends.
The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Ruth’s wonderful neighbors whose friendship and assistance allowed her to live independently at home all the way to the end, exactly as she wished.
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