Racine – Ruth J. Baker, 89, passed away at Lincoln Village Convalescence Center on Monday, August 1, 2011. She was born in Rhinelander on October 16, 1921, the daughter of the late James and Hilma (nee: Johnson) Fredrickson. On May 24, 1952 she was married to Robert C. Baker. Following their marriage they moved to Racine.
Ruth was employed at Oster Mfg. for many years. She also worked for 16 years at Dremel Mfg., retiring in 1984. Ruth enjoyed being with family and friends, and spending weekends with family in their mobile home at Lake Puckaway. After retiring she loved to travel with her husband, Bob, and they spent many winters in New Port Richey, Florida. She and Bob were inseparable until he preceded her in death on February 18, 2008.
Ruth is survived by her daughters, Judith (William) Penn, and Carolyn Fitzgerald both of Racine; step-daughter, Cheryl (Lou) Verrecchia of Surprise, Arizona; and step-son, Charles (Gayle) Baker of Yakima, Washington; grandchildren, Thomas Penn of Racine, Denise Penn Gerressen of Anthem, Arizona, David (Donna) Penn, and Laurie Penn (Justin) Mayer both of Scottsdale, Arizona, James, and Jeffrey Fitzgerald both of Waterford; Jason Ashmore of Huntington Beach, California, and Christopher Baker of Lynden, Washington; 13 great-grandchildren; special niece, Jean Luethy of Racine; as well as other nieces, nephews, many great-nieces and nephews, and friends. She was also preceded in death by her granddaughter, Janet Fitzgerald; her sisters, Violet Luethy and Hazel Skubal; and her brothers, James and John Fredrickson.
Funeral services will be held in the funeral home at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 6, 2011 with Rev. Jeffery M. Thielen officiating. Interment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. All are invited to visit with the family in the funeral home on Friday evening from 5-7 p.m., and on Saturday beginning at 9:30 a.m.
Donna Penn says
My thoughts and love are with the entire family of Ruth. I am very your loss. Donna
Chad and Gayle says
Judy and Bill, thank you for sending this very nice obituary. We feel as though Ruth enriched our lives and feel lucky to have known her, even though we saw her but a few times. Please know we are thing of you. Chad and Gayle
Christopher Baker says
My sincere condolences to Family & friends of Ruth. I’m sure being by her side day-to-day was the best gift you could’ve given her, especially after Grandpa had past. I only had the opportunity to meet Ruth handful of times, but when I did, she was always welcoming and kind. God Bless.
Gulf Harbors Condominums says
From Susan and the Staff, we are so sorry for your loss.
Joe and Denise Sagat says
Judy and Bill, The Sagat family is sorry to hear about Ruth. I have some good memories of Tom's grandmother growing up as a five year old kid. Between my parents yard, Al's yard, the Penn's yard and the Baker's, us kids had a great territory to cover. I think I had my first taste of rhubarb in Ruth's back yard…yuck.. May God bless her and keep her in his precense.
Chery & Lou Verrecchia says
Dear Judy, Bill & Carolyn, So sorry we couldn't be with you. Ruthie was a great joy to my Dad and all of us. I will miss her greatly. The obituary was very nice. Judy & Bill thank you for taking such good care of Ruth and Dad. Our thoughts are with you. Love Cheryl & Lou
GHC Swimnastics says
Always faithful, always smiling, always caring–may she Rest in Peace.