Ruth Klein

Just as big hearted as she was loved, Ruth Klein added much to the lives around her. With a grace all her own, her elegant and generous nature enlightened those who shared her company. More than anything, Ruth's love for family was by far her greatest joy. Now gone from love's embrace, the heart of Ruth lives on in the lives she so lovingly touched.

Ruth's story began during a time of great change in the U.S. Jazz music blossomed, and women won the right to vote. The year 1923 in particular marked many firsts for America. The Walt Disney Company was founded, insulin became available for diabetics, and a vaccine for the whooping cough was developed. However, nothing could compare to the excitement in the lives of Frank and Aletha (Sutherland) Seaburg when the introduction of the cold months of winter found them celebrating the birth of their little girl, Ruth Ann on December 5, 1923.

Born in Benton Harbor, Michigan, Ruth was the second oldest of eventually four children in the Seaburg household. Her parents were hard working farmers who moved often before moving to Hartford, Michigan in her high school years. Along with attending the local schools, Ruth kept busy with her share of chores on the farm and helped with her younger siblings.

Like many young women, Ruth had her own ideas and dreams for a bright future filled with hopes for her tomorrows. The onset of World War II left the nation with baited breath during her high school years, and meeting the young man who came to take her breath away was a source of inspiration for Ruth. In the years that followed her high school graduation, Ruth was introduced to Vincent "Don" Klein through a mutual friend who arranged their blind date. Only the beginning of a yearlong courtship, Don and Ruth became husband and wife on April 7,1945 and went on to spend 67, wonderful years together.

A classy gal for being raised on a farm, Don was quite taken with his new bride. A tried and true farmer himself, farming was not only Don's livelihood, but his passion, too. Before long, Ruth and Don were blessed with the births of three daughters, Shirley, Mary Jane and Carol who shared all the adventures a life of farming had to offer. They made their home on a farm in Flowerfield Township near Three Rivers where they farmed wormwood, strawberries, and asparagus. Ruth provided a good, loving home for Don and the girls. She was a good baker, and loved baking tasty treats for her family, including making wedding cakes with her friend Caroline. Her favorite place to dine was at the Beacon Club, and she liked being waited on.

Ruth's family was devoted to their Catholic faith and were members of a local parish. She was generous with her time and talents, and her warm hearted demeanor naturally drew others to her side. Elegant with a simple flair, she had a class all her own that made her even more special and endearing in the lives of those who knew and loved her. In her free time, Ruth enjoyed quilting and working in her yard, as well as shopping. She had a penchant for anything purple, and her wardrobe and household clearly depicted her favorite color. She also liked the sounds of Nat King Cole, Celine Dion, and easy listening songs of the heart.

Through the Farmers Group, Ruth and Don had the opportunity to travel far and wide. They enjoyed trips to destinations such as Europe, Brazil, Israel, and Hawaii, among others. Ruth collected bells and made sure to find a special one to treasure as a reminder of her many travels. However, there was nothing more important to Ruth than the family she adored, especially her grandchildren. She loved each and every time she spent with them, all while watching them grow and succeed to have families to call their own. Over the years many enjoyable times were shared during the holidays with her family, celebrating milestones, experiencing the joys of life, and creating cherished memories to last a lifetime.

Although simple in nature, Ruth was an elegant woman who exemplified what it means to be a devoted wife and mother, dedicated grandmother, sister, and friend. She leaves much to be remembered, and will be deeply missed.

Ruth Ann Klein, of Three Rivers passed away Friday, November 28, 2014 at the age of 90. She is survived by her three children; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren; one brother and one sister; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Vincent “Don” Klein and a bother. Ruth's family will receive friends Tuesday, 5-7 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg (269-649-1697) where her funeral service will take place on Wednesday, 1:00 PM at the same location. Please visit Ruth’s webpage at www.lifestorynet.com where you can sign her online guestbook, and share a memory and/or photo. Those who wish may make contributions to the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission.