Ruth Ann “Ruthie” Windheuser-Beebe of Lawrence, KS passed away April 8, 2017 at her home in Lawrence surrounded by family and with her beloved cat, My Girl, at her side. She was 62.
Ruthie was born July 26, 1954 in Elizabeth, New Jersey, the second daughter of Teresa and John J Windheuser of Kenilworth, New Jersey. Ruthie moved with her family in the mid 1960’s to Madison, Wisconsin where she graduated from James Madison Memorial High School and grew to adulthood.
She moved to Lawrence, KS in 1976 to be near her mother Teresa. Ruthie was a devoted daughter and became her mother’s main companion and constant caregiver in her mother’s later years, eventually moving into the duplex owned and occupied by her mother to make care giving easier. Ruthie did not have an easy path through life. She always worked to provide for herself and her son Sam Beebe, born in 1984. To those she worked with she was known as “Chef Ruthie” because she worked as a cook for several KU fraternities/sororities as well as for Presbyterian Manor and Brandon Woods.
Ruth loved to read and watch mysteries, do daily crossword puzzles from the newspaper, and cook with her mother. She had a flair for decorating and surrounded herself with artwork and knick-knacks that gave her joy. Although she never had much money, Ruth was a generous and giving person. She understood being in need and helped others in need with gifts of food, clothes or even tires for their car. She enjoyed shopping for funny gifts for her nieces and nephews and was blessed with many friends from her various workplaces who will miss her no nonsense style and attention to detail.
Ruth is survived by her son Sam, Lawrence, her older sister Christine Windheuser, Washington, DC, her younger brothers John E Windheuser, Des Moines, IA and Michael Windheuser, Lawrence; her nieces Lydia White, Laura Nordgren, Kate Rodriguez-Windheuser, and Beth Windheuser, nephews Matthew Windheuser, Andrew Windheuser, and John B Windheuser. She was preceded in death by her parents Teresa and John J Windheuser, Lawrence.
A celebration of Ruth’s life will be held on a future date.
The family suggests memorials to the Lawrence Humane Society or the ASPCA, sent in care of the funeral home.
I remember Ruth with fondness. She did so many things for me to make my life easier. Everything was done with cheerfulness and good humor. I am sorry to hear of her passing and extend my condolences to the family.
To the family — On behalf of the many young men at Beta Theta Pi who had the privilege of knowing and loving Ruthie, we extend our heartfelt sympathy and condolences for your loss. Ruthie was one-of-a-kind; always cheerful, hard-working and loved by all. We each have our particular memories of her wonderful generosity and good humor, which have stayed with us for all these years and will be her legacy as we continue to share those memories and stories with our families and others with connections to the Beta House. RIP, Ruthie.
I am very sorry to read of the passing of your loved one Ruth. She will be missed indeed. May the God of all comfort (2Cor. 1:3,4) be with your family and friends at this sadden time and in the days ahead.
I’m deeply saddened by this loss. Ruthie was a dear friend & will be greatly missed. Such a generous person….