Ruth S. Larison, 80 of Bethlehem Twp., PA died Thursday, January 25, 2018 in Keystone Hospice House, Wyndmoor, PA. Born August 24, 1937 in Jamaica, Queens, NY she was a daughter of the late Edward and Lydia (Reschke) Stielau.
Ruth graduated from Mandl School in New York City and worked as a medical doctors office assistant before becoming an executive secretary. She was employed by Ortho Clinical Diagnostics and by AT&T for many years. Following her retirement she worked for Millbrook Home Care as a companion. Ruth was a member of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, Easton where she sang in the choir, was a past-president and current vice-president of SAW, and a Eucharistic Lay Minister. She also served as Judge of Elections in Northampton County for over 12 years.
Ruth’s ready smile, joyful laughter and generous nature brightened the day of all who met her. She was devoted to her God, her family, friends and causes and will be sorely missed.
She is survived by her children: Brenda Ruth Lange of Philadelphia, Michael Lange and his wife Maria of Sharon Springs, NY; sisters: Carolyn Stielau and Edna Kline; grandchildren: Jennifer Winters (and her husband John and their children: Jillian and Johnny), Vincent Franchino (and his wife Elise), Elizabeth Kinder (and her fiancé Sean Riley), Erich Lange, Emily Lange and loving nieces and nephews. Her husband Douglas Larison died in 2007.
A viewing will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 AM Wednesday (Jan. 31) in St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 3900 Freemansburg Ave., Easton, PA, immediately followed by a service in the church. Interment will be private in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. The Ashton Funeral Home, Easton is handling arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.
Searing family
January 28, 2018 at 10:11 am
God bless you in these sad moments.
Jan And Gus Kaufman
January 28, 2018 at 10:35 am
So very sorry to hear about Ruth’s passing. We only knew her for a couple of years but she was a fabulous person. She was Dad’s aide and they really hit if off. She was so kind and considerate. Her smile was infectious. Heaven has gained an angel. We will always have her memories to comfort us.
Karhy Gilbert
January 28, 2018 at 10:46 am
Always had some good times in the early days. Ruth was very sweet to everyone especially Phil about sax playing. Brenda, it is always difficult to have your mom leave you and join our Lord. Life is never quite the same. I am sorry for you but happy that Ruth is no longer in pain and at peace. I am sorry we will be unable to come on Thurs. We will be away. God be with you and your family. Kathy and Phil
Mary Shafer
January 28, 2018 at 5:55 pm
I am so sorry to hear of Ruth’s passing. I never met her in person but did very much enjoy learning part of her story, and sharing it in my book about the 1955 flood on the Delaware River and along its watershed in the Poconos. Thank you, Brenda, for making that possible. It’s clear she was a wonderful person and passed so much goodness along through you. My heart is with you and your family as you deal with her loss.
Chanin Milnazik
January 29, 2018 at 8:03 pm
Knowing that there are so few words to express the loss you are feeling, thinking about you and reminding you that love is surrounding you.
Eileen and Al Koehler
January 30, 2018 at 9:23 am
We have very fond memories of Ruth, as you do. May these memories replace the sadness in your hearts.
Glory Mahan
February 4, 2018 at 12:17 pm
To the Family of Ruth Larison,
I’m incredibly saddened by Ruth’s passing. I was so looking forward to her visiting this year. The only consolation is she is now with Doug again.
As a cancer survivor my self I know only too well how frightening it can be. Dear Ruth, no more fear, no more loneliness. Go with God.
You were so loved by all your friends in Montana.
Glory Mahan, Red Lodge, MT 59068 gloryb@vcn.com (406)446-1232