Ruth was born on October 10, 1928, in Deshler, Nebraska, to Carl and Ida (Eickmann) Koerwitz. She was one of nine children. After marrying Stan, they lived in Fremont before settling in Lincoln, where they raised their four children: Rich, Susie, Steve, and Jay.
Family was the center of Ruth’s life. She rarely missed a sporting event, concert, recital, or milestone, delighting in every accomplishment of her children and later her grandchildren. She also loved spending time in the sunshine. An accomplished pianist and gifted bridge player, Ruth was legendary for her sharp mind—few could beat her at Scrabble or crossword puzzles. While
her short-term memory sometimes failed in her later years, she could still recite her lines from her high school play, the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution, and the 23rd Psalm, as well as many stories from her childhood, until her final days.
Ruth took great joy in watching her family grow through the generations. Nothing brought her greater happiness than being “Grandma/Babaum” to her nine grandchildren and “Great-Grandma” to her four great-grandchildren.
After semi-retirement, Ruth and Stan owned and operated the Dairy Queen on 66th Street for many years, where they enjoyed serving the Lincoln community together. Ruth also gave generously of her time as a volunteer at Bryan Hospital, the Community Blood Bank, and Redeemer Lutheran Church.
Throughout her later years, Ruth cherished the friendships she made at The Legacy and, most recently, at Southlake Village. Her family is deeply grateful for the kindness, compassion, and exceptional care provided by the staff at Southlake Village and AseraCare Hospice.
Ruth is lovingly remembered by her four children: Rich (Susan), Susie Maser, Dr. Steve (Denise), and Jay; her sister, Marian (Koerwitz) Beyer; her grandchildren, Jamie Maser, Brian Maser, Max Rodenburg, Michelle Rodenburg, Alex Rodenburg, Sam Rodenburg, Jack Rodenburg, Ben Rodenburg, and Bella Rodenburg; and her great-grandchildren, Trevor and Bryce Maser, Campbell Rodenburg, and Wolf Rodenburg.
Those who knew Ruth will remember her gentle spirit, humility, unwavering faith, and remarkable kindness. She never had an unkind word to say about anyone and lived her life with grace, humility, and quiet devotion to her family and to God. Her love, wisdom, and steadfast example will continue to bless all who knew her.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00PM Friday, September 14, 2026, at Southlake Village, 9401 Andermatt Dr., Lincoln, NE.
Memorials may be directed to Redeemer Lutheran Church, 510 S. 33rd Street, Lincoln, NE 68510.