Ruth Ann Vitko

Ruth Ann Vitko, age 86, of Ottumwa, IA, passed away on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the Homestead in Centerville, IA. Ruth was born on December 14, 1939, to Bernard and Beatrice (Lasley) Hayes in Putnam County, MO. She grew up attending school in Centerville and then attended Ottumwa Heights where she obtained her RN license. On January 21, 1963, she was united in marriage to James JohnVitko in Angola, IN, and to this union, 4 children, Barbara, Teresa, John, and Michael, were born. Ruth and Jim were blessed with 43 years of marriage prior to Jim's passing on February 21, 2006. Ruth dedicated her life to service as a Registered Nurse. She had a caring heart and love for helping others. Ruth was very strong in her faith and was a devoted member of St. Mary of the Visitation church in Ottumwa. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and was an active member of Women's Club and the Ottumwa Book Club. Ruth's greatest pride was her family, especially her grandchildren. Ruth is survived by 3 children, Barbara (Jeff) Ackles of Friendswood, TX, Teresa (Juan) Barajas of Garland, TX and John (Deborah) Vitko of Rathbun, IA; 10 grandchildren; and several great grandchildren. Ruth is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and good friends. She is preceded in death by her husband, Jim Vitko; a son, Michael Vitko; her parents, Bernard and Beatrice Hayes; and 2 sisters, Helen and Shirley. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia with Ruth's family present to greet family and friends. A Christian Wake Service will be held at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Father Isaac Essel officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery in Albia. A memorial has been established to the Mystic American Legion.