Ruth’s family suggests memorial donations in her honor may be made to the West Central Iowa Healthcare Foundation, Planned Parenthood of the Heartland and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.
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Ruth Anne, daughter of William Franklin and Bernice Margaret (Dethlefs) Ohde, was born January 4, 1941 at Manning, Iowa. She was the eldest of four children. Following her graduation from Manning High School in 1958, Ruth earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Iowa State University in 1962 and Master of Science in 1976. She also pursued her PhD degree in counseling through Drake University. Ruth worked in research for the Atomic Energy Commission and taught high school physics and chemistry for a time.
Ruth was united in marriage with Ronald Dean Beaver in 1963 and two children were born to this union. The family lived on a farm in Atlantic where she was a teacher. Ruth was living in Ames when the call came from her Dad to join the family in the Ohde Funeral Home business. She received her Mortuary Science degree from Southern Illinois University in 1979. While studying in Carbondale and commuting back to Manning, she had a wonderful home with her husband Ron Niemann’s extended family. Through her roles as a funeral director and business owner, Ruth lived her passion for helping and counseling people for 38 years. She knew that success in her life’s mission was only possible with the committed and loyal employees of Ohde Funeral Home through the years. Ruth cherished the opportunity to work with her father, her brothers John and Bill and her daughter Alison in this family legacy. She was whole-heartedly committed to the funeral service profession, serving in many volunteer capacities from a local to national level. Ruth was the first (and so far only) female president of the Iowa Funeral Directors’ Association.
Ruth gave tirelessly of her talents and money to causes in which she believed. Her love of her hometown Manning and its citizens was evident in her volunteer efforts for the Manning Heritage Foundation, West Central Iowa Healthcare Foundation, Manning Betterment Foundation, Rotary Club, Manning Regional Hospital Board of Directors and Community Foundation of Carroll County. If anything surpassed these efforts, it was Ruth’s love, loyalty and support for her family. This love for her family and their loved ones knew no bounds and was expressed in countless generous ways. Ruth loved her animal family members, too, especially her cats. She took many trips through the years and was so excited and open for each new experience. Although she loved to “go,” Ruth’s favorite place was her home, above the funeral home in Manning, surrounded by her lush plants and flowers. Ruth held life-long beliefs in the power of education, the equality and dignity of all people and the excellence of the Iowa State Cyclones.
Ruth thought about retiring and “slowing down,” but never really warmed to the idea. She suffered a massive stroke and died at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa on September 27, 2017. She was 76 years, 8 months and 23 days of age.
Ruth is preceded in death by her parents Bill and Bernie Ohde and grandparents William and Frances (Brunnier) Ohde and George and Ida Margaret (Roggendorf) Dethlefs. She is survived by her children: Ron Beaver and wife Jade of Redmond, WA; Alison River and husband Ron Reischl of Manning; daughter-in-law Kathleen Hogan of Woodinville, WA; grandchildren Abigail River and James Beaver; siblings: John and Jackie Ohde of Manning, along with their children, Sam, Ben and Sydney of Manning; William G. (Bill) Ohde and Mike Thompson of Palm Springs, CA; and Linda and George Farley of Boca Grande, FL; other relatives and countless friends.
Visitation
Sunday, October 1, 2017 4:00 – 8:00 PM
Hausbarn Konferenz Center
Manning, Iowa
Funeral Service
Monday, October 2, 2017 11:00 AM
Hausbarn Konferenz Center
Manning, Iowa
Speakers
Suzanne Gebel Ron Olson
Sam Wegner Kathleen Hogan
Ron Reischl
Music
Prelude, Postlude, Reception Music
Devon Carpenter, Harpist
“Over the Rainbow” Sarah Vaughan
“Tears in Heaven” Eric Clapton
“I’ll Be Seeing You” Billie Holiday
Recorded Music
Casket Bearers
Sam Wegner Ben Wegner Deb Knueven Bryce Schaben
Mike Thompson Ron Muhlbauer Ron Olson Dr. Doug Mc Laws
Luke Paulson Rick ‘Boozer’ Dammann Gene Steffes
Interment
Manning Cemetery, Manning, Iowa
There will be a time of sharing during the luncheon
Tributes
Barbara Mahnke wrote on Oct 8, 2017:
"I am SHOCKED to learn of Ruth's sudden passing! What a lovely, nice lady she was! I so appreciated working with her over the past year+ dealing with my mother-in-law's funeral concerns, and then eventual funeral service, etc. You have my utmost sympathy!"
Mary Lou Andersen wrote on Oct 3, 2017:
"You have my deepest sympathy. We will miss Ruth a lot. Mary Lou from Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville"
Harlow Conrad wrote on Oct 3, 2017:
"Our deepest condolences from myself and the entire Ray Conrad family. You have served our family with the greatest repect for many many years. Thank you so much. Ruth will be deeply missed."
Jay Vollstedt wrote on Oct 2, 2017:
"So sorry to hear of Ruth's passing. My sincere condolences go out to Ron, Alison, and the rest of the family. Ruth was a wonderful and caring person. I can remember her handling of my then-young children at the time of my father's passing. It was greatly appreciated - she knew just what to say to them. You'll be missed greatly, Ruth!"
Martha Thayer wrote on Oct 2, 2017:
"Alison, Your mother was an amazing woman whom I admired. She was always read to step in and help when needed or provide a word of encouragement. I know you will miss her deeply. My sincere condolences to you. Martha Thayer"
Jack Norvell wrote on Oct 2, 2017:
"Please accept my condolences at Ruth's passing. I had the pleasure of knowing Ruth when she was one a site team. A true professional and leader in the funeral profession. She will certainly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all."
James and Julie Rabbitt Family wrote on Oct 2, 2017:
"My family lives in Colorado but we have family roots in Manning and have grown up hearing about and admiring the Ohde name and all that it has stood for in that community. I met Ruth for the first time a month and a half ago when she helped with a family presentation and loved her immediately. What an absolutely lovely human being! We are so very sorry for this tremendous loss to your family and your community."
Jared Powell wrote on Oct 2, 2017:
"Ruth was the epitome of a Professional Funeral Director. Through IFDA, where she served as President and on many committees, The Board of Mortuary Examiners for many years regulation our licenses and all the National Educational boards and committees Ruth influenced and put her mark on Funeral Service. I was IFDA President Elect when she came on the Executive Board. Being the first woman to go up the chairs, we soon learned she could handle herself and she quickly became a person we all looked up to and listened to when discussing the major problems we had at that time in Funeral Service. Everything we jokingly threw at her, Ruth gave it right back. I will never forget the day at IFDA Convention when she was inducted into the Past Presidents group. Ruth was a real trooper. Ruth has left her mark also, on our family. Jacque & I traveled to NFDA meetings and conventions with Ruth and always had a great time. I always looked forward to seeing Ruth at convention. Our Daughter Kimberly has always looked up to Ruth and is now on the Board of Mortuary Examiners. Charles Yoder is now on the Executive Committee of IFDA Our Granddaughter Brittni Slaubaugh loved to visit with Ruth and is now in Funeral Service with our family. We all loved Ruth and admired what she has accomplished in Funeral Service. She will be missed very much. Funeral Service has lost one of its biggest advocates. Jerry Powell"
Dan & Lois Peters Family wrote on Oct 1, 2017:
"Ruth has truly followed the Ohde Family's Legacy of Love & caring for our community and people. She has always displayed a keen & real interest in people and eased times of loss for all of us. We've been fortunate to have served with her on some of the countless projects in which she was always generously, timelessly, and faithfully involved. Only a month ago, our own extended family had the opportunity to become more acquainted with her at a family event. As a result, our family has been shocked at her sudden death. We extend our deepest sympathy to Ruth's immediate and extended family. Dan & Lois Peters & family"
Jill Lambert wrote on Oct 1, 2017:
"I am heartbroken to hear the news about Ruth. I will always remember her strength, passion and professionalism. My deepest sympathy to Alison and your entire family."
Mark VanRees wrote on Oct 1, 2017:
"Sorry to learn of Ruth's passing. I served with her on the Iowa Funeral Director's Assoc."
Nancy Schrum wrote on Sep 30, 2017:
"I'm shocked to hear of Ruth's passing. All the comments written are so true to her character. All of our family were served by Ruth and Ohde funeral home with grace and honor. Manning will miss this grand lady who gave of herself unselfishly. I will miss her services due to prior commitments and I am sadden by this but will never forget her love and devotion. I know she was greeted by many she served in this life. Blessings. You have my sympathy."
Kathy Jones wrote on Sep 29, 2017:
"I've known Ruth for many years and she was a Manning Icon, a pillar to Manning and the surrounding communities, a first class grand lady, one of a kind graciously comforting so many families over the years. Ruth gave so muck to the community and others over the years Ruth is to be admired for the strength she gave others, her wisdom and leadership to the community. She will be missed as a pioneer and a leader and we must admire her for all the love and passion she had for others. May Ruth RIP on her eternal adventure. The Jones family"
Chris Hackett jensen wrote on Sep 29, 2017:
"So saddened to learn of Ruth's passing. When she lived in Anamosa I was her neighbor. I babysat for her son. She was a great mentor to me and I certainly have remembered her fondly."
Jerry Boger wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"I am saddened to hear of Ruth's passing. Her dedication to serving the families in the Manning area and her commitment to the Community will never be forgotten. I enjoyed visiting with her when we crossed paths. My thoughts and prayers to the entire Ohde family. God's Blessings."
Lue Baker wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"My thoughts and prayers are with you Ron and Allison, your families and the staff of the funeral home. Her legacy will live on as a part of Manning's history and an example of what it means to give back to others and community. Thank you Ruth."
Jackie and Joe Kalkhoff wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"We are so sorry for the loss of Ruth she was definitely a pillar of our community and she will be missed by many"
Jean Stadtlander wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Our deepest sympathy goes to the entire Ohde family! Manning has lost a community icon and legacy! A pillar to our community that will be greatly missed! RIP Ruth!"
Dan & Patti Muhlbauer wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"To the entire Ohde Family... We wish to extend our deepest sympathy in your loss. We have always enjoyed visiting with Ruth and she will be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family as you go through this very difficult time."
Suzanne Bandow McClelland wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Ron, Allison and family, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. Sending love and prayers to your and your families. May God be with you."
Suzanne Gebel wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Allison, I am so sorry for your profound loss. Please know your mom meant so much to me and I will miss her wisdom and kindness. It's tough to lose your mom, so please take extra good care of YOU at this time. Many hugs! ~ Suzanne"
Louise J. Mishler (Mohr) wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"I remember she handled my mother's funeral and what a delight, she was gifted with grace and love. She loved doing for those mourning the loss of someone. She will be missed. I was shocked to see this notice come across my computer. God's blessings."
Julie Hagedorn wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Heartfelt sympathy to Ron and family, Alison and family, and the entire Ohde family! Ruth was truly a pioneer for women and a great supporter of everything Manning. She will truly be missed! She was out of town when we made arrangements for my Mom, but was back for visitation and funeral! She was very comforting to us and helped us through our loss! May all of your memories comfort you now! RIP, Ruth!"
Mary wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Hugs and prayers to all. Such a sweet lady."
Glen and Chris Macumber wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Deepest sympathy! She was a Very special lady!"
Amy Osborne wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"My deepest sympathies to the Ohde family."
Jim Adamson wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"So Sorry! Thoughts and prayers to the entire Ohde Family."
Kathie Hockenberry wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Ill just say see ya later Ruth. Good bye doesnt seem fitting for a lady who helped pioneer female funeral directors. The funeral industry lost a great funeral director but her legacy to helping other funeral directors will remain for many years to come. She helped me immensely after my husband died and I needed a funeral director to step up and help in certain areas at our funeral home. We called her at times to seek advice from her vast knowledge and experience, always getting an answer. Her dedication to the industry was evident through her activity on the boards in which she served. May her family, and all who knew her, journey through their grief with remembrances of love, fun and fond memories of years gone by. We will miss her. Hockenberry Family Care Funeral Home, Atlantic, Iowa"
Peggy (Porter) Gaul wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Ruth was a teacher and friend when I was in school. She made the world of Physics and Chemistry understandable to me which was no simple task. I thank God for her and the positive impact she had on her students. I will always remember her."
Chantelle Grove wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"I am so sorry to hear about Ruth's passing. She was such a strong, caring and giving woman who left an indelible mark on Manning, the people and the entire area. She will be missed, but she will be well remembered."
Jean Voege wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Ruth was a very special lady to so many people and she has left a lasting impact on those who knew her in so many different ways. She was a champion for Manning & has left her fingerprints on this community in a way that will have a lasting impact for generations to come. My deepest sympathies to all of you."
Marthann wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Such a wonderful lady, she will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Ruth."
Dean and Shelli Lorenzen wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"To everyone in the Ohde family and especially Allison and Abigail - Ruth was such a special and giving person. Ruth was so generous of her time as well as her philanthropic endeavors. Manning will truly miss this special lady."
Jackie Hahn wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"To the entire Ohde family and staff, you lost an amazing woman today!! I met Ruth personally back in 2002 when I was thinking of becoming a funeral director and she took me in under her wing. She let me shadow her and Burke and eventually hired me on for a couple months before leaving for Mortuary School. In the few months I was with her, I learned a lot and admired her! She will definitely be missed by so many"
Malia Hansen wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"My sympathy to the Ohde family. Ruth was a very special lady whose compassion and zest for life will be missed by many."
Steve and Nancy Muhlbauer wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"To all of the Ohde family; our sincerest sympathy. Whenever we had the sadness of a loved one dying, Ruth and everyone at Ohde Funeral Home were always so great. Many, many people will miss, but very definitely remember this great Lady. RIP Ruth"
Kerry Sturm wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Ruth Ohde. May Lord comfort you. Godspeed, Ruth Godspeed."
Carleen Schwieso wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"You served well the many families of the community in their time of grief. May you now rest in Peace with the Lord."
Vern Hansen wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"So sorry to hear of Ruth's passing. She and her family comforted ours and many others over the years!"
Charlie tuna schnirring wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Allison ur mother was a really special friend 2 everyone ur in my thoughts & prayers she was 1 of a kind lady"
Traci Smith wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"There are no words to express how great a loss Ruths passing is on so many levels personally and professionally. Funeral service will not be the same currently or in the future. She had great strength, wisdom and leadership within all the communities she served and lived, which will now have a large void. I have always admired Ruth for her strength, wisdom, leadership, teachings, guidance, support and encouragement. She was a mentor to me in many ways and without her knowledge and support I would not have stayed in the business. She gave me hope in funeral service when I did not have it or see it. I am honored, grateful and thankful to have had her as my mentor, colleague and friend. I enjoyed and will cherish the opportunities I have had to work with her and her staff, it was and is always a pleasure. The teachings of future mortuary students across the country will not be the same without her and her involvement in funeral service education and the teams she served on for accreditation of mortuary schools across the United States. I WILL MISS HER GREATLY as I continue to admire what she has accomplished in her life and for her overall love, passion and dedication for and to funeral service. Thank you Ruth, for being our pioneer and a leader to women in funeral service. Wishes of great rest and continued teachings to you, Ruth, on your newest adventure. See ya later my friend."
Kevin Smith wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Dear Allison and family, I served on your moms board when she was IFDA president. We had many wonderful times together. She was a true pro and loved our profession. She was the only one that contacted me from our profession following the death of my grandson Austin. God Bless all of you and her memory."
Jean (Menke) Werner wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Alison, I am truly sorry for your loss. I have many fond memories of your mom. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
Bill Aaron wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"Ruth was a first class lady and will truly be missed by all that ever crossed paths with her. She was very supportive of me during my time as President of NFDA. While we have not seen each other for some time I always considered her a good friend. May she now rest in peace and may her family live on the memories that she left to them. Bill & Jenny Aaron Surprise, Arizona"
Doris (Dau) Neumann wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"I have many memories of Ruth when my mom worked for Ruth's grandparents . We spent many hours together playing and having tea parties. The last time I saw Ruth she took me through her home. Many many memories! May her family have peace at this time. May God bless you."
lotetta vanscoyk wrote on Sep 28, 2017:
"was shocked at this news.Ruth was so compassionate with me through my journey through my grieving process. may her words remembered by .you help you also"