Ruth Marie Herman

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Ruth Marie Herman, 87 - a devoted mother and grandmother, a cherished friend, and an extraordinary woman whose kindness and strength touched everyone she met. Ruth's nurturing spirit, unwavering support, and boundless love will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Ruth was born on May 30, 1938, in Nicktown, PA, to Anna Esther ("Esther") and Joseph Fredrick ("Fred") Bechel. Growing up on the family farm, she developed a lifelong love of animals and gardening. As a proud member of the 4-H Club, she won numerous ribbons throughout her youth. After graduating high school, Ruth moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where she worked as an administrative assistant. She later moved to Johnstown, PA, and worked as a nutritionist at Mercy Hospital - a chapter in her life made all the more memorable because it was there that she met the love of her life, Joseph Herman.

Ruth and Joseph were married for over 50 years and welcomed 5 children. Ruth was deeply dedicated to her children's activities and community. She served as a Cub Scout Den Mother, taught Catechism classes at St. Sylvester Catholic Church, generously volunteered her time to assist senior citizens with their tax returns, and was an active member of the Wallenpaupack Area Band Parents Association, among many other roles.

Over the years, Ruth cultivated countless passions. She raised and showed Siberian Huskies and was especially proud of Kishka, her Westminster Dog Show Best of Breed Champion. Ruth was also a gifted gardener; her flourishing vegetable and perennial gardens were a reflection of her patience and joy in nurturing life. As one of the founding members of the Country Gardeners Garden Club, she served as Membership Chairperson for more than twenty-five years. She and her group once earned first prize for their flower vignette at the Northeast Pennsylvania Flower Show at the Kingston Armory. Recently, she was honored as the club's first-ever Chair Emerita.

Ruth's love of flowers blossomed into a deep appreciation for orchids. She joined an Orchid Club and made annual trips with friends to various orchid shows and to the Philadelphia Flower Show. Her green thumb and dedication resulted in many prize-winning orchids, and she made the art of growing them look effortless.

Ruth also enjoyed wonderful friendships through her involvement in The Top Hats Red Hat Club, where she proudly held the title of Viscountess. She treasured the luncheons, holiday gatherings, and camaraderie shared with her fellow Red Hatters.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Esther and Fred Bechel; her husband, Joseph; and her siblings Charles James (Jim) Edwards, Mary Ann Gorentz, John Bechel, Betty Lou Iwasaki, Nancy Bechel, and Carl Bechel. She is survived by her sisters Patricia Himmer and Doloris Pajak; her children Christine Herman, John Herman, Kathleen Rickrode (Jerry), Vincent Herman (Daiane), and David Herman (Connie); and her grandchildren Jordyn Rickrode, Christian Rickrode, and Joseph Herman.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ruth's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the National Audubon Society.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, November 25, at Queen of Peace Church in Hawley, PA. Interment will follow at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, November 26, at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, PA.

Ruth's devotion to her family and friends was truly unparalleled. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her.