Ruth "Christ" Karren

Ruth Christ Karren of East Brunswick, NJ passed away peacefully at her home on September 15, 2025. She was 103 years old.

Born in Milltown, NJ she lived in East Brunswick for most of her life. Mrs. Karren was employed for 48 years as a Registered Nurse in the Medical Department of Personal Products, a division of John and Johnson. Following retirement, she was a nursing consultant for five years. She was a certified Occupational Health Specialist.

Mrs. Karren was one of the first Captains of the Milltown Rescue Squad Ladies Auxiliary at its inception.

She was very active in the American Red Cross in her earlier years, serving on the Board of Directors, Blood Drive Committee, and was a First Aid instructor for 35 years. She received the "Outstanding Service to the Community" award from the American Red Cross for initiating the first organized blood drive for any Johnson and Johnson Company. She also launched the initial First Aid Squads for the Johnson and Johnson Family of Companies.

During World War II she served her country on the Home Front with civilian status at Camp Kilmer Hospital.

Mrs. Karren was a life-long member of St. Paul's Church in Milltown, NJ. In her youth she served as officer in many of the church organizations. She was a member of the youth choir, adult choir, and Women's Guild.

She was a member of the American Nurses Association, Occupational Health Nurses Association, and a life member of St. Peter's Medical Center Auxiliary.

Family members and friends were surely aware that Mrs. Karren was a big Dallas Cowboys fan anytime they stopped by her house or saw her out and about. Cowboys souvenirs filled her house and clothes closet. Many of the items were autographed by her favorite player, Hall of Fame Cowboys receiver Drew Pearson, who grew up in South River, NJ. Before her 100th birthday, her nephew contacted Pearson to alert him of Mrs. Karren's upcoming milestone and he whisked to her a large box of Cowboys autographed items and a greeting card that she cherished.

Predeceased by her beloved husband of 39 years, Dr. Victor Karren; brothers Vincent, Alden, and Wilbur; and sister Pearl Schwarz; Mrs. Karren is survived by her Niece Nancy DeHaan and husband Pieter of Somerset, NJ; nephew Robert Christ and wife Lori of Albuquerque, NM; and niece Judith Necklen of South River, NJ.

Family and friends will be received Friday 4:00pm – 8:00pm at the Bronson and McNamara Memorial Home of Milltown, NJ. The funeral service will be celebrated at St. Paul's Church of Milltown on Saturday at 10:00am followed by burial at Van Liew Cemetery, North Brunswick, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to St. Paul's Church - Milltown, (Send Checks Made out to St. Paul's) to 62 South Main St. Milltown, NJ 08850 or online https://members.myeoffering.com/#/landing