Ruth C. Wood
December 17, 1934 - August 03, 2020
Obituary
MIDDLETON – Ruth Clare Wood, age 85, of Middleton, passed away on Monday, Aug. 3, 2020, at Agrace HospiceCare. She was born on Dec. 17, 1934, in Portage, Wis., the daughter of Eugene and Esther (Gerstenkorn) McMahon. Ruth graduated from Portage High School. She married the love of her life, John "Jack" Wood, on Dec. 28, 1957.
Ruth was a longtime resident of Middleton, living in and staying involved in the community for over 50 years. She worked for the City of Middleton for nearly 40 years, retiring in 1998. She enjoyed spending time with her friends in card clubs, playing Bridge, bowling, traveling and shopping. Most of all, Ruth loved spending time with her grandkids and attending all of their events and activities. She loved celebrating the holidays with her family, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas, and she brought joy to everyone with her presence. Her bright smile and kind heart will be missed by all who knew her.
Ruth is survived by her children, Jed Wood, Lori (Don) Murphy and Toni (Doug Brown) Wood; grandchildren, Riley (Zach) Addamo, Rogan Murphy, Braydon Murphy and Declan Brown; sister, Jean Michels; brother, Robert McMahon; and several nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; her parents; brother-in-law, Edward Michels; and sister-in-law, Lois McMahon.
We look forward to a day in the near future where those we love can safely be together to celebrate our mother. Until then, please be safe.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Agrace HospiceCare for all of the compassionate care and support given to Ruth and her family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare or to the charity of your choice in Ruth's name. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson West
Funeral & Cremation Care
7435 University Ave.
(608) 831-6761
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Memories
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Lisa Strand
Other •
Jed, Lori, Toni and family,
My heart hurts knowing we lost this beautiful lady. Oh...the memories and laughter we’ve shared throughout the years! I’m sure Art, Dee and Jack already had the cards dealt when she arrived. Rest In Peace Ruth!
BH
Bev Hayman
Other •
Your mom was a great lady. I always enjoyed running into her and chatting, a lot! Always reminded me of my babysitting days on Elmwood with you kids. Olden days. My thoughts and fond memories are with you. Bev Cantwell Hayman
MB
Mary Battista
Other •
Lori, your mom was always so kind and so much fun when we were growing up and hanging out at your home. (baking as I remember just to have something to do). Her lively personality will be missed by so many! Please accept my most heartfelt sympathy. It's always so hard to lose a parent, no matter what age. You are in my prayers.
Mary Bellissimo Battista
MP
Mary Pedersen
Other •
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your Mother. I don't know any of you children but I was friends with your Mother beginning in 1939 Kindergarten, eight years at St. Mary's and graduating from Portage High in 1952 with both your parents. I spent many happy times with your Mother. In 1953 we took a trip by train to Colorado for a vacation visiting some of my family and we visited your Dad who was stationed there in the Air Force. I last saw your Mother on a trip to Wisconsin five years ago. We always kept in touch on birthdays and just whenever we needed to chat and recall times we'd shared. I will miss my friend and send you children my kindest regards.
Lovingly,
Mary (Miles) Pedersen
Las Vegas, NV.
+ 5
KL
Ken Lowstetter
Other •
Jed , Lori and Toni
I am so very sad to hear about your Mom's passing. She was such a bright light that could always find humor in anything around her. I have many memories of her visiting us in Palm Springs and Honolulu.
She loved her coffee and was the only person that I ever met that could drink a pot of coffee before she went to bed... Often times my Mom would come visit when your Mom was here... they were the same age and would go off shopping all day and come home laughing like two school girls when they were together. As well as visit in Hawaii with the two of them... I have so many wonderful memories of such a beautiful person inside and out. You were blessed to have such a wonderful loving Mom that loved you so much!! I do hope that you all can find some peace during this very sad time...
My heartfelt condolences to all...
Ken
GS
Gregory L Sheehy
Other •
I admit that I did not know Ruth very well, but I did have the honor to be Jack’s physician for many years. And one thing that became very obvious was that Jack could always count on her support and love during each and every health crisis he experienced.
But that support was not just for Jack. She was also a great help to me as we navigated together Jack’s chronic health issues. She was devoted but practical; an advocate but non-domineering; persistent but also patient. He lived longer than anticipated because of her care. Jack surely knew that.
Rest In Peace, Ruth, your work is finally done.
Gregory L Sheehy MD