Ruth Butcher
Ruth Lucile Butcher
Age 91 of Owosso passed away June 2, 2025 at home surrounded by her family members.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held 11am on Friday, June, 6, 2025 at St. Paul Catholic Church with Fr. Michael O’Brien officiating. The family will receive friends at Nelson-House Funeral Home on Thursday, June 5, 2025 from 2pm to 8pm, with a rosary being held at 7pm.
Ruth was the daughter of Clarence and Mabel (Rigling) Ridgway born in La Harpe, KS on September 19, 1933. She was one of 6 children.
She graduated from Owosso High School, class of 1950 and Sparrow Nursing School in 1956. Shortly after beginning her nursing vocation of over 40 years as a Registered Nurse at Owosso Memorial Hospital, she entered into her most cherished life vocation – being a devoted wife and mother. Larry spotted her beauty and compassion as she cared for his terminally ill father. She fell in love with his smile, friendliness, faith and his large family.
Ruth married Lawrence “Larry” W. Butcher at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Owosso on July 18, 1959. Throughout their 55 years together they faithfully nurtured 5 children and embraced the blessings of grandchildren wholeheartedly.
As a couple, Ruth and Larry enjoyed many camping adventures, bluegrass festivals, fiddler jamborees, and various trips throughout the country, including a journey along the Alaskan Highway. They were blessed with many dear friends made at both Mancelona and Chesaning Senior Centers.
Ruth was a member of St. Paul’s Parish. She lived a life defined by compassion, service and unwavering love for her family and faith. Ruth found joy in music, singing, and spending time with loved ones. She also enjoyed playing cards, bingo, nurturing her plants and praying the rosary. Ruth cherished the fellowship of the neighborhood prayer group she attended and was a devoted friend to many. Ruth will be remembered by her loved ones for her love of family, strength of character and selfless service to others. She was a true caregiver.
Ruth is survived by her children Marcia (Jon) Woods, Lisa (Scott) Marier, Larry(Sandy) Butcher Jr., Susie (Scott) MacArthur and Jenny (John) Hetfield; grandchildren Jonelle (Mark) Stachowiak, Jay (Lily), Mallory (David), Michael and Mark Woods, Zach (Judith), Mitch and Allie Marier, Brendan and Patrick Butcher, Leslie McKee, Abby (Joe) Godfrey, Cade (Emily), William, and Lars (Maddy) MacArthur, Molly (Jason) Cook, Josh (Emily), Ben and Zane Hetfield, and Daniel Stenback; great grandchildren Grant and Claire Stachowiak, Robin and Rory Woods, Olivia, Claire and Joey Godfrey, Walt and Boone MacArthur, Lucy MacArthur, Magnolia and Violet Hetfield, dear niece Ruthanne Ray, treasured friend Pat Adams and many other nieces, nephews and loving family and friends.
She was predeceased by her husband Larry, infant daughter Helen Elizabeth, 2 brothers and 3 sisters.
Memorial contributions are suggested to E.W.T.N. or St. Paul Catholic Church