Ruth Joyce Kooi

1937 - 2025

Ruth Joyce Kooi (nee Karner)

Jan 2, 1937 - Apr 22, 2025

Ruth Joyce Kooi (nee Karner), a strong Christian woman, born January 2nd, 1937, was called by her Savior to her eternal home on April 22nd, 2025 at the age of 88. Her love for the Lord guided everything she did, from the way she cared for others to the joy she found in life's simple blessings.

A nurturing and compassionate mother, Ruth poured her heart into raising her children with strong Christian values. Her grandchildren adored her and they were her pride and joy. She loved each one and delighted in sharing her time, stories, and wisdom with them.

As a faithful and active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Ruth served her congregation through creativity. She could often be found on top of a ladder hanging or adjusting decorations. She had a keen eye for detail, as those who worked with her could attest.

Ruth is now reunited with the love of her life, Bert B. Kooi. Their bond was one of deep affection, unwavering support, and a lifetime of shared memories. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, love, and enduring devotion. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and quiet strength that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Ruth is survived by her adoring children: Bert (Kaye) Kooi, Beth (Rich) Lehmann, Bret (Pam) Kooi, Bliss (John) Gavin. She was the proud Grandy of: Richard (Alli) Lehmann, Nathan (Miranda) Lehmann, Andrew (fiance, Mandi Crombie) Kooi, Lyndsay (Ryan) Klapper, Garret (Emily) Kooi, Paige Kooi, Conner Gavin, Jack Gavin, and Ty Gavin. Great Grandy to: Drake, Ford, Shay, Arya, Wes, Brody, and Scottie. She will be missed by her brothers and sister: Ernest (Judy) Karner, Harold (late-Barbara) Karner, Barbara Sue Karner, and sister-in-law Catherine (Al) Staack. Ruth will be fondly remembered by her Uncle Joe, many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Ruth was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Bert B. Kooi; parents Ernest and Loretta Karner, parents-in-law, Bert and Mildred Kooi and many loving relatives.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family on Monday, April 28th from 9:00-11:00 a.m. DIRECTLY at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 8601 Harrison Avenue, Munster Indiana 46321 with a funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will be held following the funeral at Concordia Cemetery, Hammond, Indiana.

The family would like to thank Schroeder Lauer Funeral Home and Hospice of the Calumet Area for all of their gracious support and comfort through these difficult times.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Hospice of the Calumet Area or St. Paul Lutheran School. www.schroederlauer.com

Schroeder-Lauer Funeral Home