Ruth I. Dunfee Obituary
Ruth I. "Ruthie" Dunfee, a cherished soul known for her loving and kind nature, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025, in Bay City, Michigan. Born on August 20, 1942, in Bay City, to the late Raymond & Eleanor (Neuenfeldt) Laney, Ruthie was the seventh of eight children, a family that was the cornerstone of her life.
Ruthie's journey through life was marked by her dedication to her family, which came to include five daughters: Pam (Mike) Strauss, Cyndi (Aaron Moon), Sherry (good friend Allen), Billie Jo (Kevin) Cooper, Michele Charlston , grandchildren; Taylor (boyfriend Josh Snider) Cooper, Sarah Harris, Racheal Charlston, and Jacob (girlfriend Kaylee) Charlston, along with many more grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Her brother Archie Laney and sister Janet (Bob) Arnold . Ruthie was preceded in death by a daughter Michele Charlston and her siblings and their spouses: Raymond (Donna) Laney, Lucille (Edwin) Tucker, Lavern (Judy) Laney, Dorothy Hartley, Shirley Laney, and sister-in-law Darlene Laney.
Ruthie's work ethic was evident from a young age as she took on various roles throughout her life. From her early days at a local laundromat to her retirement from Meijer, she approached every task with a sense of responsibility and pride. Her colleagues often spoke of the joy she brought into the workplace and how her friendly nature made even the most mundane tasks seem enjoyable.
She was a woman of many interests and talents. She had a passion for bead crafts, finding joy in the intricate patterns and the beauty of the finished pieces. Her love for games was apparent in her regular bingo nights with friends, where laughter was abundant, and friendships were strengthened. Ruthie also cherished the simple pleasure of taking scenic rides up north, where she could revel in the tranquility and beauty of nature.
A highlight of Ruthie's year was the Caseville Cheeseburger Festival, where she would ride her amigo with a spirit of celebration and community. These moments encapsulated her love for festivity and her ability to find happiness in the company of others.
Ruthie's life was a testament to the power of kindness and the importance of nurturing relationships. Her legacy is etched in the love she had for her family, the friendships she cultivated, and the lives she touched with her generosity. She will be remembered as a beacon of warmth, a woman who saw the good in others, and someone who could always be counted on for support and affection.
The family would like to say a special Thank you to Bay Shores Nursing Home, Kathy Jones, Carol Roseberry and Joanie from Pine Meadows.
A Memorial service will be held Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Rivertown Funeral Chapel with Pastor Tom Knight presiding. Friends and family may visit at the chapel from 11:00 am until time of service.
