"Ruth was a wonderful neighbor always with a smile and a wave. She was a spectacular teacher. Both kids were lucky to be in her class. I still use recipes from 'the Little House on the Prairie' inspired cook book/Mother's Day gift that James brought home. We were lucky to know her. We have good memories of her. We send our sympathy to her family at this time of loss. "
In loving memory of
Ruth Ann Hainstock
May 28, 1933 - August 16, 2019
Ruth Ann (Gockel) Hainstock, 86, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2019.
Ruth was born on May 28, 1933, the daughter of Celestine and Theresa (Adams) Gockel in Lancaster, Wisconsin. Ruth was united in marriage to William Scott Hainstock on August 12, 1953 at Saint Columbkilles Catholic Church, Dubuque, Iowa. Ruth and Bill farmed together and raised four children Bill, Deb, Rich, and Barb.
Ruth graduated from high school at the age of sixteen and went to a two year college to become a school teacher. She then began her teaching career at Rockdale Country School when she was 18 years old. After marriage, earning her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Marycrest College, and beginning a family, she returned to teaching at Delwood Schools in Delmar, Iowa; where she retired after 29 years. Ruth was very devoted to her career and had a positive impact on many of her students, families, and coworkers. She is a member of Sacred Heart Church in Maquoketa and a member of the Catholic Daughters of America Court St. Raphael #1156.
Ruth enjoyed traveling and playing cards with her friends and family. She spent many hours in retirement volunteering for local organizations including Hospital Auxiliary, Maquoketa Community Cupboard, Hurstville Interpretive Center, and Meals On Wheels. Ruth took great pride in her family and enjoyed following their careers and activities.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children William (Wendy) Hainstock of Maquoketa, Debra (Gary) Pontenberg of Florida, Richard (Mary Jo) Hainstock of Vinton, and Barbara (Shannon) Elmore of Montana, also five grandchildren Michael (Lisa) Hainstock, Tara (Tom) Atkinson, Matthew (Dani) Hainstock, Kimberlee and Barbara Rose Elmore, two step-grandchildren Adam and Ashley Pontenberg, and four great grandchildren Isabel and Will Atkinson and Ivy and Rex Hainstock. Siblings include Dan (Elaine) Gockel, Dave (Joanne) Gockel, and Tom Gockel, her sisters-in-law Phyllis Campbell and Charlotte Gockel and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband William S. (Bill); an infant son Lee Scott; her parents; sister & brother-in-law Patricia & Bud Strane; two brothers, Joseph and Bill; and in-laws Patricia Gockel, Lois and Mel Laschansky and John Campbell.
A funeral mass celebrating Ruth's life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, August 23, 2019, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Thursday, August 22, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, where the Rosary will be recited at 3:30 P.M. Burial will be at the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County.
Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.
Tributes
"What a pleasure it was to have Ruth teaching in the Delwood School. I think she taught all but one of our,Gerry and Mary Farrell's kids. It was always a good report she had for us at Teacher's conference and we enjoyed having her as a good friend wherever we met. My prayers for Ruth and all her Family May she rest in peace Gerry Farrell"
"Such a wonderful woman and teacher. She was one of my favorites at Delwood Elementary. A rare, happy soul that warmed all who knew her."
"Thinking of Dear Sweetheart, Ruth and all she means to so many! She will be missed, especially her bright smile and her sense of humor. Her beautiful white hair always was a hallmark of her inner beauty as well. I miss her, but am so happy God took her before "we all had to begin school", teachers, one and all!! Accept my sympathy Wendy and Bill, all those that I met from Montana, and the entire family. Love and prayers, D.J. Knickrehm"
"We are so sorry to hear about the loss of Ruth. Our families were so close and loved our times growing up together. She will be missed by so many people, especially all of us. Rest In Peace Ruth. "
"Barb & family . I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. "
"My deepest sympathy to all of Ruth's family . . what a pleasure it was to have known Ruth, her light will be missed by many."
"Sorry to hear of your loss. Cherish the many memories you have of her."
"Aunt Ruth was truly a blessing to so many. She had a kind caring heart & soul. I remember every year she would come to grandparents day with me so I didn't feel left out. I always loved hearing about her travels & the beauty she saw in life. She was a great woman, whom I looked up to as a little girl. I hope you find comfort in knowing she is with God. ?? She is now an angel to many. "
"I had Ruth as a teacher at Delwood elementary, was a exceptional teacher and person. RIP RUTH"
"Rich, MarJo and family, Valerie and I offer our deepest sympathies to you during this time of your loss. Ruth led such a full and beautiful life and was an inspiration to all those who knew her. Val just commented that your mom was the nicest person she has ever known. What a tribute! Rest assured that she has earned her reward and is at peace. Our thoughts and prayers to you all in the days ahead."
"Rich,MaryJo, and family, Valerie and I send our sincere sympathies to you during this time. Ruth led a full life and did a lot of good for others in this world. She was an example of what we are all called to do. What an inspiration to all! Rest assured knowing that she has earned her reward and is at peace. Our thoughts and prayers to you all in the days ahead. "
"Bill Wendy. Deepest condolences for the loss of your loved one. May she rest in peace "
"Aunt Ruth was always so precise and put together. Loved kids and teaching along with Family. Rest In Peace Tim"
"I remember all the Delmar families getting together for picnics, etc. Ruth Ann enjoyed all she did and always had a smile on her face! Sympathies to the families."