Freida Olivene Ruch

A woman who feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. Freida Olivene Hudson Ruch was instantly united with Jesus at 11:39 p.m. on October 18, 2026. She was born to Henry Russell Hudson and Eria Merrick Hudson. She was an only child, but her parents raised their nephew, Earl Merrick, who became like a blood brother. She was preceded in death by her husband (Jerry) and oldest daughter and son-in-law (Linda and Bruce Catterlin).

She graduated from Royal Center High School in 1956, and then attended Moody Bible Institute, completing her degree in 1959. While in college, she met her sweetheart and married on August 1, 1959. Together, they raised three children, Linda Sue Catterlin (Bruce), Larry Stephen Ruch (Tami), and Pamela Joy Harrod (Stephen). She dearly loved all of her grandchildren: Cari Minick (Rodney), Casey Catterlin (Cassie), Cody Catterlin (Marcy), Jeremy Ruch, Amy Marie Melendez-Mejia (Ivan), Amy Joy Hall (Brad), and Brian Harrod (Rachel). Her great grandchildren Jaci (Alex), Jonah, Hunter, Nolan, Charlotte, Carter, Cole, Eliza, Haley, Carmen, Joseph, Adalynn, and Mateo, and her three great great-grandchildren Carson, Nevaeh and Alexis were very precious to her.

Freida was never found idle. She was an early riser who had a lengthy resume of jobs and titles including nurturing mother, gardener, seamstress, fisherwoman, game player, cook, baker, butcher, crafter, bookkeeper, counselor, encourager, organizer, and resourceful innovator – you get the picture. She had to live a long time to get all of her duties and desires accomplished. She did everything with excellence. When faced with difficult situations, she was quick to turn to the Lord for guidance and direction.

She trusted in Jesus as her Savior at the age of 9. Her faith guided her throughout her childhood, and into adulthood where she faithfully shared the gospel with others. Daily Bible reading, Teaching Sunday School and AWANA, face painting at fairs, helping with bus routes and door-to-door visits, playing the church organ and writing curriculum, were regular rhythms that molded her into the godly woman she was always striving to be.

She was alert, engaged, and vibrant until her parting. Her absence will leave a huge hole in our hearts, but we are delighted that she did not have to suffer a long illness and is forever whole in His presence.

We are so appreciative of Vitas Healthcare nurses and staff, Emily and Cheryl, who have been ever present and helpful. Crystal Han, and Gregori and Ciarra Gualtor were also huge blessings to our family along the journey. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 22 at Bayview Fisher-Pou Chapel. Service will begin at 3:00 p.m. with Dr. Ted Traylor officiating. Interment will follow at Bayview Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Casey Catterlin, Cody Catterlin, Jeremy Ruch, Brian Harrod, Brad Hall and Alex Frankenberger.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Gideon’s International at https://gideons.org/donate. Gideon Cards for the family may be addressed to: 5205 Rowe Trail, Pace, FL 32571.