Ruth Milch

Ruth Milch of Highland Park died on Sunday, March 21, 2010. Born in New Brunswick, NJ, she attended New Brunswick schools and graduated from New Jersey College for Women, now Douglass College, in 1942. After receiving her Social Work certificate from University of Louisville she was active doing social work during WWII. She received her teaching certificate from Kean College and taught 5th grade in Highland Park for 20 years without ever taking a sick day. Ruth was a longtime member of the League of Women Voters, and a volunteer with the Zimmerli Museum, Meals on Wheels, and the ESL program. Through the years, she opened the family home to numerous international students and visitors, many of whom became lifelong friends. During the 1970's, she and her husband ran a campground in Pennsylvania. Among Ruth's many special gifts was her warm, friendly personality. Everyone was welcome in her home. There was always room for one more at the dinner table. Ever an optimist, she had a kind word to say about everyone. Ruth loved to sing. At the slightest provocation, she would bring out song sheets and hand them out to guests at her home.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Sarah Rosenbaum and Abraham Sher; a sister, Lillian Arkin, and a brother, Paul Sher. She is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Robert Milch, and four children, Sue, Doug, Ed, and Fred, and spouses; nine grandchildren; nieces Lora Arkin, Sara Louise Kilburn, and other cherished nieces and nephews; and adopted son, Raja Edirisuriya.
Friends are welcome to visit the family at home on Tuesday and Wednesday from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. A gathering to celebrate Ruth's life will be held at a later date.