Ruth Marie Jerue

Ruth Marie (LaPorte) Jerue, known affectionately as Ruthie , passed away on November 3, 2023, at the age of 72 in Bussey, Iowa. She was born on May 9, 1951, in Paw Paw, Michigan, to George and Edith (VanTyle) Laporte. Ruth was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend.

Ruth had a vibrant personality and a zest for life. She was crowned Miss Decatur in 1969 right after graduating from Decatur High School. After graduating she attended Twin City's Beauty College in Benton Harbor, Michigan. She enjoyed a variety of hobbies including bowling, golfing, sewing, and watching NASCAR. Ruth was also an avid collector of anything that featured Donald Duck. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family and friends.

In her professional life, Ruth had a diverse career. She worked as a secretary for multiple businesses. Ruth was also a talented seamstress, dedicating her life to her craft. Additionally, she worked as a realtor for various companies and served as a member of the State of Michigan Board of Realtors, showcasing her determination and adaptability.

Ruth's memory will forever be cherished by her three daughters, Gina (David) Ward, Stephanie (Kenny) VanderLinden, and Teri (Cory Wiseley) Morgan. She was a proud grandmother to Tyler (Josie) Blaudow, Samantha Ward, Kortney (Zach) Moore, Hailey Groenendyk, and Lane VanderLinden. Ruth was also a doting great grandmother to Everly Gail, Paisley Ruth, and Caiden Lee Moore. She is survived by her special mother-in-law, Marge Jerue, and her siblings Mildred Christians Arendt, Dorothy Meachum, Helen (Bob) Mesko, and George (Pat) Laporte. Ruth is also remembered by her sister-in-law Sharon (Randy) Kuiper, as well as several special nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ruth was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard (Rick) Jerue, her parents, George and Edith Laporte, her stepmother, Dorthy LaPorte, her grandson Zade Groenendyk, her sister Jane Edith Warner, and her father-in-laws Richard (Dick) Jerue and John Geasler. She was also predeceased by her brother-in-laws William Meachum, Gene Donovan, Ray Arendt, and Larry Borgman. Nephews Jimmy(JC) Christians and Christopher Borgman.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at the visitation held at Bybee & Davis Funeral Home in Knoxville, Iowa on Tuesday, November 8, 2023 from 5-7pm. A Celebration of Life will also take place at Casco United Methodist Church in South Haven, Michigan on November 18, 2023 at 3pm.

The compassionate professionals at Bybee & Davis Funeral Home in Knoxville, Iowa, are assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.

Ruth's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved and knew her. May she rest in peace.