Ruth E. Hoover Pratt

Ruth Pratt, 89, of Fort Wayne died Monday, July 18, 2011. She was born May 21, 1922 in Dekalb County to Ora and Elizabeth Hoover, she was a first generation American; her mother having immigrated from Nusdorf, Germany in the late 1800's. She lived her life in Fort Wayne where she attended and graduated from South Side High School in 1930. She attended Valparaiso University and remained active in the local Valpo Guild. She was a member of the Women's Auxillary of the American Legion and served as a member of the Chancel and Parish choirs and Altar Guilds of Redeemer Lutheran Church and Emmanuel Lutheran Church where she was most recently a member. She ensured that she remained close to her children and grandchildren by choosing employment at the cafeterias at Huntertown High School, Indiana University-Purdue University at Fort Wayne, and Northcrest Elementary School. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold (Fritz) Pratt and a great-grandchild, Madelyn McFadden. Her faith, church and family were principle to her life. As she was able she supported Concordia Lutheran Seminary, Lutheran Layman's League, Lutheran Hour Ministries and other ministries of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. She is survived by her three children, Sharon (David) Bieberich, Peggy (Roger) McFadden, and Charles (Roxanne) Pratt; nine grandchildren, Michelle (Joe) Miller, Molly (Steve) Hahn, Michael (Tammy) Bieberich, Matthew Bieberich, Jennifer (Kevin) Witzigreuter, Amy (Brian) Sandberg, James (Stephanie) McFadden, Katharine (Ben) Banta and Andrew Pratt; twenty three great grandchildren; as well as nieces and nephews. Funeral Service is 10:30 am Thursday, July 21, 2011 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 917 W. Jefferson Blvd. with calling one hour prior. Visitation is 2-4 and 6-8 pm Wednesday at Klaehn, Fahl and Melton, Wayne St. Chapel, 420 W. Wayne St. Preferred memorials to Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 917 W. Jefferson Blvd. www.klaehnfahlmelton.com