William Alfred Ruth

Born on February 27, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, Bill was the son of Alfred and Violet (Schaft) Ruth. During his childhood, Bill attended Gethsemane Lutheran Church, and Nativity Lutheran Church. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Bill’s life was defined by his deep faith, generous heart, and tireless dedication to both family and community.

Bill was a proud and lifelong Lutheran, a faithful member of Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Livonia since the 1987. It was there that he met his wife, Karen Dee (Ragsdale) Schnuell-Ruth. After discovering her name in the church directory, he reached out and asked her on a date — the beginning of a beautiful love story that led to their marriage in January of 2000. Together, Bill and Karen shared 25 wonderful years of companionship, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; his children: Will Ruth, Kate (Rob) Tomes, and Meg (Karl) Wacker; his treasured grandchildren: Tyler, Kyrian, Jordan, Evan, Brendan, Lorien, Asher, Jude, Nora, and Lucy; and his sister Pam (Sam) Fiani. Bill also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Violet Ruth; his son, Jeffery Ruth; a baby daughter; his sister Cynthia (Joe) Delgado, and his nephew, Todd Galley.

Bill began his professional life as a medical technician in Detroit hospitals, later transitioning into the foundry industry where he found his true calling. He worked for many years as a project manager at Temperform in Novi, where his leadership and problem-solving skills earned the respect of his colleagues until his retirement. He was a proud member of the Engineering Society of Detroit, the American Foundry Society, and the American Safety Council.

Bill had a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, volunteering with “Friends of the Rouge” to help protect the Rouge River watershed. He was known to delight in his duties, which included counting frog croaks and identifying aquatic bugs—a testament to his curiosity and love of nature.

His passion for music and dedication to his children led him to serve as the Marching Band Pit Crew Leader at Thurston High School in Redford. Even after his daughters graduated, Bill remained actively involved, helping wherever he was needed and building lifelong friendships along the way.

A gifted photographer, Bill captured countless memories through his lens. He even served as a staff photographer for the Milford Times, sharing his talent and artistic eye with the broader community. In his leisure time, he enjoyed fishing, being outdoors, and exploring the beauty of nature.

A Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 am on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church,14175 Farmington Road, Livonia, Michigan 48154. Bill’s family will receive visitors at the Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan, 48152, on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 4:30 pm until 8:00 pm, and again at Church on Friday from 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 am. A burial will take place on Friday at Glen Eden Lutheran Memorial Park.