Ruth M. "Bootsie" Makuck, 87, of Crystal Falls, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, June 15, 2012, at Northstar Health System, Iron River.
She was born November 16, 1924, in Crystal Falls, daughter of the late Clarence and Mildred (Payne) Stacy. Ruth was a lifelong resident of Crystal Falls and, as a member of the Class of 1943, took pride in earning her high school diploma after she had raised her family. She married Albert J. Makuck on May 11, 1943. He preceded her in death on July 17, 1985.
Ruth enjoyed crocheting, knitting, playing cards, bingo, listening to music, working crosswords/word searches and spending time with her family and friends. She loved sports and was a faithful fan and follower of the Forest Park Trojans, Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions. For several years, she was dedicated to crocheting afghans for senior athletes from Forest Park until her arthritis prevented her from continuing this personal commitment.
She firmly believed in helping and serving others, especially those in need, and served as a volunteer at the Crystal Falls St.Vincent DePaul store. As a lifelong member of Guardian Angels Catholic Church, she served as Eucharistic Minister, past president of the Altar Guild, CCD teacher and member of the Parish Council. Ruth was a lifetime member of Tufts-Rondon Auxiliary 2891, serving many years as chaplain in addition to heading various committees. She was also a member of American Legion Auxiliary 37.
Ruth brought much laughter and joy to others with her quick wit, sense of humor, story-telling, and harmless pranks. Her presence will be greatly missed, but her spirit will continue to touch those who knew her.
She is survived by her children, Bonnie (Glenn) Westin, Escanaba, Lorna (John) Anderson, Crystal Falls, Jon (Jean) Makuck, Oconto Falls, Wis., Kelly Makuck, Crystal Falls; one sister, Joyce (Bob) Jackson, Merrill, Wis.; two brothers, Bill (Doris) Stacy, and Allan Stacy, Crystal Falls; eight grandchildren, Michael (Sherri) Woelffer, Greg (Lynn) Woelffer, Stacy (Jason) Gasperich, Christopher (Sandy) Makuck, Kevin (Christy) Makuck, Kyle (Sally) Makuck, Paul (Beth) Makuck, and Molly Jindra; seventeen great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces , great-nephews and many dear friends.
In addition to her husband and parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her sister, Marjorie Gustafson; two sons-in-law, Fred Woelffer and Ralph Schilz; and special friend, Wayne Stream.
Visitation will be Thursday, June 21, 2012, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Jacobs-Plowe Funeral Home, Crystal Falls. The Tufts-Rondon Auxiliary 2891 will conduct a memorial service at 6:15 p.m. and the Rosary will be recited Thursday, 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Visitation will also be Friday, June 22, 2012, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, 11:00 a.m., at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, Crystal Falls. Fr. Jeffrey Kurtz will officiate. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Cemetery, Crystal Falls.
You may light a candle in remembrance of Ruth or leave a condolence for her family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com
The Jacobs-Plowe Funeral Home, Crystal Falls, is serving the family.