Ruth M. Schonhoff

May 25, 1925 – July 10, 2019

Mom slipped away peacefully this week after a brief illness, having lived her 94 years to the fullest. Born during the Great Depression, Ruth learned the value of caring for other people whenever she had something of value to give. We were reminded during these past two months of how many lives she touched, as she never spent a single day without visitors, calls, or letters.

When her own parents passed away far too young, she dedicated her early life to helping raise her youngest brothers. As a young mother of three, Ruth found rewarding work in the Livonia Public Schools, teaching children with a range of severe disabilities. When she coached a child to some breakthrough, like saying their first words or mastering some important physical task, Mom cherished that memory as if the children were her own. Later in life, having lost her beloved husband Walter, Ruth found fulfillment as a Stephen Minister at her church. Volunteering her time and compassion to families in crisis seemed a natural fit for her, and she leaves yet another legacy there – families whose lives are forever better because of Mom’s dedicated, compassionate care.

In her ‘80s and ‘90s, Mom continued working at her church to give what she could to those in need. She cooked meals for the homeless, enough to feed 30 people at a time, and those she fed were often amazed to learn that a woman of her age had somehow found the strength to provide for them. Mom was very proud of her independence, living in and maintaining her home and still driving. She was also a passionate fan and supporter of the Detroit Tigers, watching every game and attending a few games every year with close friends.

Ruth was preceded in death by her loving husband Wally, daughter Kristen, and four siblings, Ralph, Evelyn, Howard and Norman. She is survived by her two sons Tom (Kelda) and Don (Jean) Schonhoff. She had three grandchildren, Ryan, Nick, and Grant.

In honor of Mom’s service to the homeless in Detroit, we ask that those of you who feel moved to contribute in some way, please consider supporting Mom’s favorite cause.

Family of God

7354 Whittaker St

Detroit, MI 48209

https://www.fogdetroit.com/support-us

Memorial services will be held as follows:

Visitation:

Sunday, July 14 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Harry Will Funeral Home

37000 W. Six Mile Road

Livonia, Mi 48152

Funeral service:

Monday July 15 at 11:00 AM

Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church

14175 Farmington Rd

Livonia, Mi 48154