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Ruth Briehl Obituary
May 17, 1926 - February 10, 2024
Tacoma, Washington - Ruth H. Miles Briehl was born on May 17,1926 to Edna Brechler and Ford Miles, in Fennimore, Wisconsin. In 1948 she both graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a B.S. in Medical Technology and married John Briehl who was preparing to be a Lutheran pastor. The family lived in Nyssa, Oregon, where John served Faith Lutheran Church and Grace Lutheran in Vale.
They moved to Spanaway, Washington in 1962 to begin a new church, Spanaway Lutheran. Ruth worked in labs in Iowa, Idaho, Oregon and Washington, including Lakewood General Hospital. From 1967 until retirement she was an instructor in the Certified Laboratory Assistant Program at Clover Park Technical College.
Ruth was commended to God's gracious keeping on February 10, 2024 in "the parsonage," her home for 62 years, cared for by her family. She is preceded in death by her sisters, Marion and Dorothy, and her husband John. She is survived by her children, John (Lani), Susan (Martin Wells}, Sarah (Ron Morris) and Douglas (Annamarie), 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
A service of thanksgiving will be held at Spanaway Lutheran Church, 16001 A Street, Spanaway, on Saturday, March 2nd at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers consider donating to Lutheran Community Services NW (253-271-4756) or Bethel (B.E.S.T.) Scholarships ([email protected]).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ruth Briehl
Sponsored by Fir Lane Memorial Park, Funeral Home, Chapel & Crematorium.
Sandra (Mathis) Palmer
January 31, 2025
I have many fond memories of Mrs. Briehl. Our family attended Spanaway Lutheran Church. My sisters and I were friends with the kids. I still remember going to their house after school one day and finding a plate of fresh ginger snap cookies on the counter for us. She always made me feel welcome.
Although a bit late, I want to send my sympathies to the Briehl family.
John B Goddard
May 27, 2024
My condolences to the Briehl family. I have treasured memories of her, growing up. She was an amazing lady and always a smile on her face.
May she rest in peace and fly with the angels.
John Goddard
Maricopa, Arizona
Cathy West
March 2, 2024
I worked with Ruth at CPTC for several years before she retired. She was the life of the lunchroom with her unique sense of humor. She will be missed, but oh what memories
Kathleen Oakes Failey Gilstrap
March 2, 2024
I remember her very well, as I had worked for Dr. Richard Klein in Lakewood. My family, parents Du Wayne & Elva Oakes, went to Christ Lutheran Church and we would see your family at various Lutheran functions. My parents spoke about attending Susans sermons, they enjoyed her. I remember your mother with a beautiful smile, twinkling eyes and always so kind. We all were very lucky to have known her and your family. I wish I could attend the memorial, but am not able to. She will be missed.
Bev
March 1, 2024
Ruth was a wonderful friend and mentor from my childhood and beyond. She will be sorely missed.
Margaret (Espeseth) Nugent
March 1, 2024
Our families met at Spanaway Lutheran in the mid-60s, and Mom treasured Ruth's friendship forever after. What a spectacular human being Ruth Briehl was! Funny, serious, generous, wise. One memorable day she taught us how to make lefse. We send you all our love and condolences.
Joyce Loveday
February 27, 2024
Though I never met Ruth, she left a strong legacy at Clover Park Technical College that still exists today. Ruth impacted the lives of hundreds of students by preparing them to become Medical Laboratory Technicians. Ruth and her family are on our hearts and minds.
Sandra green
February 26, 2024
I remember Ruth from Clover Park. She was a lovely happy woman. My husband Al Green laughed with her many time. She was an excellent teacher.
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