Ruta B. Neimanis

Ruta was born on October 14, 1941, in Dobele, Latvia, to Augusts and Marta Jenskins. Her early years were shaped by the upheaval of World War II. In 1943, her family fled Latvia to escape the ravages of war, spending the remainder of the conflict in Germany. During those difficult years, Ruta endured the heartbreaking loss of three siblings, while her eldest sibling became separated from the family and later immigrated alone to Carlisle, England.

Not being able to return to their homeland, the family sought safety and a fresh start in the United States. In 1950, Ruta, who was only 8 years old, and her family arrived in the United States, settling first in Columbia, South Carolina, before relocating to Detroit, Michigan, when she was 13. She attended and graduated from Detroit’s Osborne High School in in 1960 and went on to attend Wayne State University, continuing her studies there until the birth of her first child.

Shortly before graduating high school at age 17, Ruta met her future husband, Ilmars Neimanis, a fellow Latvian, in Canton, Ohio, through mutual friends of her parents in the Latvian community. While Ilmars served in the U.S. Army, the two exchanged heartfelt letters that deepened their bond across the distance. After his discharge in 1962, Ilmars secured a job and moved to Michigan to be closer to Ruta. They continued their courtship and were married on September 14, 1963, in Ruta's hometown of Detroit, Michigan. Together, they shared 62 years of marriage and raised three children: their daughter, Yvette, and their sons, Erik and Andre.

Family was always at the center of Ruta’s life. Having experienced profound loss in her early years, she held her loved ones especially close and considered them her greatest treasure. Her faith was always important to her, and she made sure it was a primary focus in her children's lives by sending them to Lutheran schools from elementary through high school. She was also very passionate about teaching her children Latvian culture and dedicated many long hours tutoring them in the Latvian language. Ruta was deeply involved in the Latvian community, actively taking her children to Latvian church, schools, folk dancing, and scouting events. She also served as a den mother while her sons participated in cub scouting, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing both cultural heritage and her commitment to family.

Ruta also cherished homemaking, cooking, music, watching movies, and fine dining. As a grandmother, she found immense joy in caring for her grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Abba.” She loved attending their activities, and hosted many sleepovers with them which brought her great happiness. A lifelong animal lover, Ruta welcomed many pets into her home, including dogs, cats, birds, bunnies, guinea pigs, hamsters, and even a duck.

Ruta leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and devotion. She is survived by her beloved husband, Ilmars Neimanis; her children, Yvette Musto (Don), Erik Neimanis (Lillian), and Andre Neimanis (Tricia); her step son, Donny Musto (Beth); her treasured grandchildren, Haley Henciar, Cassy Styers, Brandon Styers, and Johnny Henciar; and her loving great grandchildren, Felix and Vincent as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins throughout the USA, England, and Latvia.

Her strength, devotion, and unwavering commitment to her family will be forever remembered by all who knew her.

A visitation will be held on January 9, 2026, from 12-2 PM with a funeral service at 2 PM at Resurrection Funeral Home, located at 40800 Hayes Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in memory of Ruta Neimanis to either Detroit Pit Crew Rescue or New Day Foundation (for families fighting cancer). Both are charities that Ruta was passionate about. Direct links available below.