Ruth Eileen (Heidrich) Gunn

Ruth is survived by her three sons and their families: David (Rhonda) of Chico, California, Charles (Jessica) of Laurel, Maryland, and Bradley of Sacramento California. She had a total of seven grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren. Ruth’s husband of 64 years, Charles W. Gunn DVM, preceded her in death by 16 years.

Ruth Eileen Heidrich was born September 26, 1920 in Toledo, Ohio to Fred Heidrich, an accountant, and Hulda (Bishop) Heidrich a teacher and homemaker. She was close to her older brother, Fred Jr., 4 years her senior. During these early years the family attended the German speaking First Evangelical Reformed Church, and was active in community affairs. Her grandmother, Emma (Waidler) Bishop, and great-aunt, Julia Waidler, lived with the family and had lasting influence on Ruth’s early development. The family was close, and made frequent visits to extended family throughout the region.

The Heidrich family moved to more rural Bronson, Michigan, in 1932. The Heidrichs attended the First United Methodist Church where Ruth was active in youth activities. She had fond memories of the time she spent with her mother after school doing crafts, music, sewing, elocution, and other planned activities. Ruth was heavily involved in school organizations and community activities. She graduated from Bronson High School in 1938 as Valedictorian.

Following her brother Fred to Michigan State College, Ruth got a degree in Bacteriology and became a Medical Technologist in 1942. Shortly thereafter she met Charles W. Gunn, a staff sergeant in the Army Air Corps, at a dance at Baer Field in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He asked if he could see her again, she said, “You can pick me up tomorrow morning for church.” They were married June 6, 1943.

Charles and Ruth had three sons: David, 1948, Charles 1950, and Bradley 1953. Ruth was very proud of her sons and considered them her best accomplishment.

Ruth was a devout member of the Northminster Presbyterian Church family since 1958. She particularly enjoyed the fellowship and life-long friends she found in the Rebecca Circle. She and Charles enjoyed their time with the Mariner groups, and Mellow Miler outings. They loved to explore our beautiful country with their fifth wheel, uncovering their genealogical roots along the way. While at home, and on the road, Ruth and Charles were eager to participate in local square dance and round dance gatherings.

Ruth was a major contributor to the success of Charles’ veterinary hospital providing a near constant presence and taking charge of the business aspects of the practice.

Not one to abandon her dreams from high school Ruth earned her California license in medical technology and worked at the University of California Davis, Sacramento Medical Center in microbiology, after a 25 year absence from the field.

Ruth’s quick wit, endearing smile, and strong sense of purpose were felt by all who knew her. Ruth Eileen (Heidrich) Gunn will forever occupy a very special place in our hearts.

Ruth has been laid to rest with her beloved Charles at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, Dixon, California.

A memorial service for Ruth Eileen Gunn is scheduled for 11:00 AM, Saturday, March 23, 2024 at the Northminster Presbyterian Church, 3235 Pope Ave., Sacramento, CA 95821. Dr. Tony Stiff will officiate the memorial service. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ruth’s life well lived. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Northminster Presbyterian Church, 3235 Pope Ave., Sacramento, CA 95821.