In the spirit of the season of leftovers . . .By Susan W. Murray news@thewoodstockindependent.com Always, when The Woodstock Independent runs a Busine…
December 4, 2025
Ruth Ellen (Stahlecker) Rish, age 62, of Tustin, Michigan, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025.
She was born on May 3, 1963, in Woodstock, Illinois, to Dr. Helmuth A. and Vera R. Stahlecker.
Ruth dedicated her life to caring for others as a devoted nurse, and her compassion and gentle spirit touched the lives of countless patients, friends, and family members.
Ruth was a loving and devoted wife of 30 years to her husband, Ronald Greg Rish. She is also survived by her siblings: Tim Stahlecker, Cadillac, MI; Helmuth (Sandy) Stahlecker, Lebanon, OH; and Karen Stahlecker, Woodstock, IL; plus her cousins, and many nieces & nephews.
Outside of her career, Ruth found joy in the simple and beautiful things in life. She loved arts and crafts, birdwatching, and fishing, campfires, indoor gardening, and she cherished time spent surrounded by nature and loved ones.
Ruth will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those she loved.
Preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Connie Stahlecker & Lisa (Stahlecker) Kubiak.
A service to celebrate Ruth’s life will be held at a later date.