Ruth Kuntzman

Ruth Ann Kuntzman, cherished wife of Rev. Paul Kuntzman and devoted mother of James Kuntzman died Sunday, Nov. 24 at Brookdale Assisted Living in Saginaw following an extended illness.

Ruth was born September 4, 1942 the daughter of Barthel and Ruth (Hauser) Lhotka. Surviving family members and relatives include a beloved son James, his wife Emma, and infant son Ezekiel; brother Richard Lhotka; sister-in-law Sharon Straub; additional grandchildren Brandon and Savannah Bertlesmeyer; nieces Babette Finger and Michelle Pfershy; nephews Gary and Herb Lhotka and Bob Straub.

Ruth attended and graduated from St. John's Catholic School in Benton Harbor and what is now Lake Michigan Catholic High School in St. Joseph. After high school she worked twenty years for Michigan Bell Telephone as an operator and a supervisor. Ruth was ever adaptable and subsequently worked for Kelly Temporaries as an account representative in Louisville, KY; as a secretary at Eastern Michigan University; and last as a clerk for the Friend of the Court in Ann Arbor. Paul and Ruth celebrated their forty-fifth wedding anniversary September 14.

Ruth was a generous and loving person who naturally attracted people to her. Earlier in life she enjoyed boating, water skiing, fishing, and playing cards. She also liked to go to garage sales. She enjoyed participating in church activities and traveling. Her devotion and love found their deepest expression in her marriage and family. Perhaps it was because of her catholic background that Ruth shared with Pope Francis a favorite teaching of Jesus: "Judge not lest you be judged by the same judgement." She tried to live by that maxim.

Funeral services will take place on Monday, December 2, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth, 590 N. Franklin Street.  Rev. Reginald Lancaster of Flint, Michigan will officiate. Ruth's family will receive visitors at the funeral home on Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to First Congregational U.C.C. in Saginaw, to Lake Michigan Catholic Schools of St. Joseph, Michigan or St. Paul UCC Warren, Michigan.