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Ruth Kamps Obituary

Ruth Rauch Kamps

It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Ruth Rauch Kamps. Ruth was born in Milwaukee in 1936, grew up in Wauwatosa, and is an alumna of Divine Savior Holy Angels High School and Marquette University. She earned her Master's in Education from UW Whitewater, was a published essayist, and taught fifth grade for over thirty years. Ruth was an open-hearted soul who loved people from all walks of life and graciously welcomed them into her home. She touched many in many different ways, through her decades of teaching, her knitting and weaving, and many kindnesses. She loved to read, travel, play tennis, entertain, and she loved the view of the woods in Genesee from her kitchen window. She is survived by her four children and ten grandchildren; all of whom will miss her and remain eternally grateful.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from Dec. 14 to Dec. 20, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Ruth Kamps

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Shari Lovendahl

March 6, 2022

Today, I too, read Ruth's beautiful essay, "Living with Grace and Elegant Treeness". I went in search of how to reach Ruth to share how much her story meant to me. I had an old and strong childhood tree that held me in its arms, danced with me in the wind and sang to me with my ear pressed against its arm. I never feared that it would let me fall. I loved that tree and I know it loved me, too. Thank you, Ruth. Blessings to her children and grandchildren and indeed, her writing, for the continuation of her life. As she wrote, "A bit of the divine in the tree and me." Thank you.

Candy Neville

March 19, 2021

Today I read the lovely essay, "Living Life with Grace and Elegant Treeness" in "This I Believe" by Ruth Kamp. It was delightful and I went searching to tell her. So I'll tell you instead. One of my best friends as a child was an apple tree. Kindred spirits.

Kay Enright Eberle

January 17, 2021

Ruth would have turned 85 on Jan. 14th. I am a few days late due to computer problems We were friends since Kindergarten. She lived about a block away from me. For the 8 years that we attended St. Jude together we walked back and forth daily, with the exception of St, Patrick's Day and Ruth walked on the east side of Glenview and I walked on the west side as Ruth was all German and I was all Irish!! I do not recall that but it was always worth a good laugh when Ruth would tell the story!! We parted ways at Glenview and Gridley but not until we spent additional time chatting on that corner, In later years we wondered what we talked about but neither could remember!! I spent much time at the Rauch home as beyond the bountiful garden that her Dad put in every Summer was Kavanaugh Hill where we went tobogganing and sledding. It was always SO much more fun going down than trudging back up!! We did not see much of each other while raising our families but reunited since our 50th reunion from Holy Angels. There were 5 of us who started Kdgn, together and 2 from hs. We met to celebrate each one's BD until we were in our early 80's Then health problems prevented the gatherings but have kept in touch with each other. The last time I spoke with Ruth was on her 84th BD. I enjoyed going to their home in Gen. Depot Among my favorites were :the loom, the rocking chair, the porch. Ruth's excellent German cooking and last but nor least---Pants--the dog!! Ruth always graced us with home made knitted items such as purses, hats, mittens etc, for our BDs Three from our Kdgn. class have now passed on Have great memories of Ruth as being very kind, charming, entertaining,, her great laugh and a fun person to be with. Have prayed for her for a long time and will continue to do so, May she rest in peace! She will be missed!! Kay Enright Eberle

ladonna j Glass

January 6, 2021

I first met Ruth when I was a first year teacher and John was in my 4th grade classroom. I was impressed with Ruth as a parent and as a person. A few year later I had the privilege to teach with Ruth at Wales Elementary. Her classroom was next door and when I became a new mom she shared with me her wisdom about being a new mom and trying to do the balancing act between motherhood and work. Her wisdom was always a comfort to me and always made me laugh. May her laughter, wisdom and memories live on within all of you. Ladonna Glass

Catherine Wood

January 5, 2021

Aunt Ruth was one in a million. I feel incredibly blessed to have had a childhood that included trips out to Genesee Depot and adventures with all the Kamps cousins. Aunt Ruth was always warm and welcoming and I loved her ready smile, laughter and stories. Sending all my love to Fred, Alice, Tory and John.

Noree Mills-Heinicke

January 1, 2021

Talented, intelligent, caring, creative, humble, and compassionate are only a few words to describe this amazing woman and friend. Ruth brought a smile to my face and was always willing and able to put all matters into perspective. Ruth cared deeply for everyone in her family and was so proud of the people they became. I will miss Ruth, her cheeky smile and sense of humor. She will always be in my heart. I am a better person because of Ruth's influence. Condolences to all of her family.

Ann Noelke Witt

December 21, 2020

Fred, Alice, John and Tory, I am so sorry to hear that you lost your mom. She was one of my absolute favorites. Her warmth, charm and humor brightened up so many Noelke/Kamps gatherings for me. I loved visiting your home in Genessee where your mom always made us feel so welcome. Thinking of you and your beautiful, talented mother.

Rachel Rauch Lortscher

December 20, 2020

We are praying for you. Ruth was a great woman and teacher.
Ruth and my Dad John Rauch were 1st cousins. He shared a memory with me tonight that he, Ruth, and Janet would cause trouble when they got together. They would tie shoe laces together under the table at family get togethers. It brought a smile to my face thinking of them so young. Our thoughts are with you.

Jack Diehl

December 20, 2020

My prayers for Ruth. May she rest in our Lord´s arms.

Wackers

December 20, 2020

We loved every moment we spent with Ruth ...and John, and are so grateful for having met most of the family. Ruth united the neighbors and created cherished memories for all. She was brilliant, clever and infinitely kind. We shared many boxes of wine, bri cheese and guacamole and especially great stories and many laughs. Our life is richer because she was in it. Thank you for sharing your family. We wish you peace and abundant and joyful memories.

Jeff and Bobbi Giesie

December 19, 2020

So sorry for your loss. What a wonderful lady you guys had to call mom. Will cherish my memories of Ruth at your cabin up north and at the kamps homestead. So many good times .
So sorry ,
Jeff Giesie

Cluster of 50 Memorial Trees

Frederick Kamps

Planted Trees

Linda McFarlane

December 18, 2020

I´m so sorry to hear about Ruth´s passing. She was an amazing lady and a dear friend. I was so fortunate to have her as my friend. My sympathy goes out to all of her family and friends. She will be greatly missed.

Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results

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