Ruth J. Walters

RIGA- Ruth J. Walters, 88, of Riga, Michigan passed away on Thursday, August 24, 2023 at Brookdale Adrian surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 10, 1935 in Adrian, MI, the daughter of Edward and Janira (Kastel) Brieschke. Ruth graduated from Blissfield High School with the Class of 1953. It was common to visit with your neighbors when growing up in a small community like Riga; and there was one special neighbor that caught Ruth’s attention, Wayne Walters. The story goes that Wayne encouraged his younger siblings to go ride their bikes so he could have the opportunity to ask Ruth out on a date without an audience being present. It must have worked as Ruth and Wayne were married on June 19, 1954 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Riga. They raised a family and shared much love and laughter in their 67 years of marriage before his death on May 14, 2022. Ruth was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church and served as secretary for many years. She lived her faith by example, passing this belief on to her four children. She volunteered her time by cleaning the church and delivering meals on wheels. Ruth was very active in the community, she belonged to card and square-dancing clubs and participated with the Blissfield Senior Center. Ruth and Wayne enjoyed camping and traveling, often taking bus trips with friends. Ruth’s love and commitment to her family was demonstrated by her ongoing support for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren at sporting and school events. Her homemade custard ice cream was a special treat on July 4th gatherings. Her greatest joy was being surrounded by as many family and friends as possible, making every event or holiday memorable. She is survived by her children, David (Deanna) Walters, Scott (Brenda) Walters, Jeff (Debbie) Walters and Jan (Brian) Ford; grandchildren, Rachel, Renee, Laura, Bradley, Brandan, Brent, Adam, Jacob, Tyler, and Brianna; and great-grandchildren, Landon, Lane, Noah, Isaiah, Gavin, Logan, Brooks, Jude, Henry and Elliott. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wayne; siblings, David Brieschke, Mary Ann Nichols and Erven Brieschke; and great-granddaughter, Ella Loraine Bechtel. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, Riga, with Pastor Dale Hedblad officiating. Burial will follow at Riga Cemetery with graveside services conducted by Pastor David Corliss. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Wagley Funeral Home, Tagsold Chapel in Blissfield and again at the church one hour before the service begins on Wednesday. Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, Hospice of Lenawee or the Blissfield Senior Center. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHomes.com

Ruth J. Walters

January 10, 1935 - August 24, 2023