Ruth Hirsch

Hirsch, Ruth

Ruth Stahmer Hirsch, 87, Madison, went to Heaven peacefully on Monday, Aug. 1, 2011.

She was born Nov. 19, 1923, in Melvin, Ill., the only daughter of the Rev. Henry and Caroline (Eisere) Stahmer. In 1925, Ruth's family moved to Wausau, where her father served the Wesley Church for 25 years.

During her high school years, Ruth met the love of her life, Elroy Hirsch. They married June 27, 1946. Ruth followed Elroy's football career from Chicago to Los Angeles to the University of Wisconsin athletic director. Together, they raised two children, Win Steven Hirsch and Patty Hirsch Mamlquist.

Ruth was an incredible sweet person. She could talk to anyone, and loved delivering Babcock ice cream to all who needed her love. Her blue eyes, smile, and sense of humor brightened everyone's day.

Ruth loved her grandchildren, Grant Malmquist, Ford Malmquist, and Jonathan Hirsch, and cherished every moment of time that she could share with them.

She was active in the community with Attic Angels, P.E.O, and her beloved Bible Study group.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Patty (Doug) Malmquist; and her grandchildren, Grant and Ford Malmquist, and Jonathan Hirsch.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Elroy; a son, Win; and four brothers, Dan, Al, Karl, and Wes Stahmer.

Funeral services were held Aug. 5, 2011, at Asbury United Methodist Church, 6101 University Ave., Madison.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Asbury United Methodist Church, Oakwood Lutheran Homes, 6201 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53705, or HospiceCare Inc., 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711.

Gunderson West Funeral & Cremation Care, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, 608-831-6761, www.gundersonfh.com.