Ruth Nitz

Ruth Nitz, 96, of Baroda passed away Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, at Woodland Terrace in Bridgman.

A celebration of life service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 2673 W. John Beers Road, Stevensville. Friends may visit with the family from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel and Cremation Service, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. A private burial will be held in Ruggles Cemetery in Baroda at a later date.

Memorials may be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Stevensville. Those wishing to share a memory online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.

Ruth was born on Oct, 27, 1929, in Benton Harbor to Arthur and Clara (Faistel) Mandel. She was confirmed at St. Matthew's Church in Benton Harbor and graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1948.

On May 29, 1954, Ruth married the love of her life, Arnold "Arnie" Nitz, in Benton Harbor. She began her career as a switchboard operator at Whirlpool Corp. and later dedicated many years as a cook with Lakeshore Public Schools. Ruth was a faithful member of St. Matthew's Church until 1983 and later St. Paul's, where she served on the Ladies Aid Society for many years. Her faith in God was strong and guided her life, providing comfort, strength, and a deep sense of purpose.

In her younger years, Ruth enjoyed golfing and camping with her family, and she and Arnie treasured traveling internationally together. She cherished time spent with friends, especially planning card games and playing marbles, and was affectionately known by many as "Ruthie" and "Rufus." Ruth loved gardening, particularly tending to her flowers, and took great joy in decorating her home for the different holidays. Her grandchildren hold especially fond memories of baking with Grandma in her kitchen, moments filled with love, laughter and warmth.

Ruth treasured her years at Woodland Terrace, where the compassionate staff became her second family. She loved to dress up and wear her jewelry, finding joy in looking her best both when going out and while residing at the nursing home. She also found great comfort and joy in her beloved cat, Coco.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Cathy (Rick) Bonnett; sons: Jeff Nitz and Alan (Julie) Nitz; grandchildren: Christy Nitz, Adam Nitz, Josh (Darcey) Nitz and Amanda (Anthony) Grandstaff; and great-grandchildren Otto Nitz and Aiden Nitz.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents and husband.