Ruth Wilson

Gunderson Funeral Home Wilson, Ruth M. MIDDLETON - Ruth Mary Wilson, age 81, passed away on Thursday, April 26, 2007, at Meriter Hospital in Madison. She was born Oct. 21, 1925, in Oelwein, Iowa, the daughter of James Charles and Naomi Elizabeth (Mather) Murray. Ruth was a 1943 graduate of Monroe High School and went on to further her education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, earning a B.S. in English education. On Oct. 18, 1947, Ruth was united in marriage to John O. Wilson in Madison. He preceded her in death in 1982. When her children were young, she was active in supporting their youth organizations. She then began her career with the University of Wisconsin Research Lab, where she enjoyed interviewing many interesting people. Ruth worked most of her career as a research analyst and supervisor for the state of Wisconsin, Department of Industry, Labor and Human Relations, where she worked for more than 22 years, retiring in 1989. She was a member of St. Bernards Catholic Church and the 5-0 Club. Ruth is survived by her son, James (Barbara) Wilson of Middleton; her daughter, Carol (Philip) OLeary of Madison; and four grandchildren, Dan OLeary, Julie OLeary, Merritt Wilson and Reid Wilson, whom she loved so very much and took great pride in their accomplishments. She is additionally survived by a sister-in-law, Lois Murray and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, John Wilson; Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, Jack and Al Murray. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, April 30, 2007, at ST. BERNARDS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 7450 University Ave., Middleton, with Monsignor Joseph P. Higgins presiding. Burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery, Madison. Family and friends may call from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 29, 2007, at the GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL HOME, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, where a Scripture service will be held at 5 p.m. Friends may also call on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Patti Haefner, Betty Lizik, Lynn Karle and Dr. Bernard Micke and his nurse Cheryl. Memorials may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, W223 N608 Saratoga Drive, Suite 110, Waukesha, WI 53186-0401. Gunderson West Funeral and Cremation Centers 7435 University Ave. (608) 831-6761 www.gundersonfh.com