Shaw

Mrs. Ruth B. Shaw

Mrs. Ruth B. Shaw, age 96, of Cedar Springs passed away on Thursday, February 26, 2009.

She grew up on a farm and graduated in 1930 from Cedar Springs High School. Later she and her husband Charles had their own farm. Even as a child Ruth enjoyed working in the soil. She planted thousands of trees (to stop soil erosion and conservation), weeded the garden, and taught her grandchildren how to show respect for flowers and plants.

Ruth would not leave her home unless the dishes were done. She was a wonderful seamstress and knitted many slippers and scarves that she gave to her family, church, Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, and the Dominican Republic.

For many years Ruth wrote the East Nelson notes for the Cedar Springs Clipper. Ruth was a member of the East Nelson United Methodist Church for 65 years and was secretary for the MITE Society. Her family remembers the succulent taste and smell of her cinnamon rolls and her wonderful meals. For the last six years she was part of the family at Bishop Hills Elder Care Community, and Ruth especially enjoyed the many activities.

She is survived by her children, Ken and Louise Shaw of Cedar Springs, Geri and Bob Winegar of Rockford, and Rosi and George Pappas of Cookeville, Tenn.; grandchildren, Kelly and Randy Longcore, Kolene and Rick Gibson, Kirk and Colleen Shaw, Kory Shaw and his fiancée Susan, Amy and Roy Ortego, Mark and Wendy Winegar, Jill and Nick Landers, Beth and Craig Brown; 19 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Mrs. Wannetah Phelps. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles; a brother, E.L. Phelps; and sister, Mrs. Lola Eldred.

The service for Mrs. Shaw was Monday at 11:00 a.m. at East Nelson United Methodist Church with Pastor Mary Ivanov officiating. Interment was in East Nelson Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider East Nelson United Methodist Church or Hospice of Michigan.

Arrangements by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.