Ruth Ann Stechschulte

1941 - 2026

Apr 14, 1941 - Mar 5, 2026

OTTAWA – Ruth Ann Stechschulte, 84, of Ottawa died 10:58 a.m., Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Taylor Place in Findlay. She was born April 14, 1941, in Continental to the late Paul and Mabel (Bauer) Marriott. She had been married to Harold Brinkman and he is deceased. She then married Harry E. Stechschulte on July 10, 1993, and he died September 19, 2004.

Survivors include her two sons, Jon Paul (Laura) Brinkman of Thousand Oaks, CA and Joel (Marmie) Brinkman of Moorpark, CA; three granddaughters, Alexis Brinkman, Abigail Brinkman and Charlotte Brinkman; three step-grandchildren, Josh Martin, Tyler Martin and Cody Martin; and partner, Bruce Spencer of Ottawa.

She was also preceded in death by a son and daughter-in-law, Jeffrey (Michele) Brinkman.

Ruth Ann had a lifelong spirit of service and community. In the 1990s, in her spare time when not teaching or playing tennis, she volunteered alongside her children with Meals on Wheels, something she deeply enjoyed sharing with her family. After retiring, she continued giving back at St. Rita's, where she worked in reception and guest services, always welcoming people with her kindness and friendly smile.

She loved following and attending OGHS sporting events and was a devoted fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Baseball season was especially exciting for her as she cheered on Ohio teams, including the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Indians.

Family was at the center of Ruth Ann's life. She proudly taught all three of her boys how to play competitive tennis at an early age, sharing with them her love for the sport and the joy of staying active. Throughout her life she enjoyed tennis, golf, swimming, biking, and traveling. Her adventures took her across the United States and to destinations in South America and Europe.

Ruth Ann taught for 33 years at Glandorf Elementary. In retirement, she stayed closely connected with many of her fellow teachers through the Red Hatters Club. Together they shared laughter, friendship, and many memorable adventures.

She especially treasured her time in California, where she often traveled to spend extended visits with her sons and three granddaughters. Those moments with family brought her immense happiness and were among the times she cherished most.

Funeral mass will begin at 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 16, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Glandorf with Fr. Matt Keller officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m., Sunday at LOVE FUNERAL HOME, Ottawa.

Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.loveheitmeyer.com.