Ruth P. (Panessidi) Shaver

Lansing, MI

Our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and sister passed away, September 11, 2012 at the age of 90, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease with her loving family by her side. Ruth was born August 14, 1922 in Lansing, the daughter of the late Walter and Frances (Derusha) Barker. She was a devoted wife and mother and worked as a licensed practical nurse. Ruth was a member of St. Therese and St. Gerard Catholic Churches for many years and volunteered to serve for many activities at both churches. She had a passion to serve within her community, and truly enjoyed large gatherings with her family and friends. She was also a member of the Waverly 39’ers Club. Ruth will be lovingly remembered for her willingness to help in any area that she was needed. Preceding her in death are her parents; beloved husbands, Nick Panessidi and Bill Shaver; four sisters; and one brother. Surviving to cherish her memory are daughters, Donna (David) Kirkey of Lansing, MI, Fran (Dick) Leonard or Gun Lake, MI, Phyllis Barber of Lisle, IL, Nancy Shaver of Mulliken. MI; step-daughter, Sharon (Loren) House of Paradise, MI; sons, Nick Panessidi of Zephyrhills, FL, Joe Panessidi of Brighton, MI, Tom (Lexa) Panessidi of Lansing, MI, Robert Shaver of Grand Ledge, MI; 22 grandchildren; 38 great grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren; sister, Jean (Don) Taylor of Gladwin, MI; as well as many nieces and nephews. A funeral mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, September 14, 2012 at St. Gerard Catholic Church, 4437 W. Willow Hwy., Lansing, MI, with her nephew the Rev. James Shaver as celebrant. The family will receive friends from 2:00 – 4:00 PM and 6:00 – 8:00 PM on Thursday, September 13, 2012 at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 900 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48912 and one hour prior to services at the church. A private burial will take place at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery at a later date. For those desiring, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Michigan Great Lakes Chapter, 310 N. Main, Ste 100, Chelsea, MI 48118 in memory of Ruth. The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.grlansing.com