Ruth Tjoelker Obituary

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Ruth Tjoelker (Lynden, Washington), who passed away on May 30, 2023, at the age of 84, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

She was predeceased by : her parents, Gerard Ridder (Gerardus) and Margaret Ridder (Roelfina Bos); her husband Bert Tjoelker; her siblings, John Ridder, Ron Ridder and Margarita Balzer; her brother-in-law Walter Dahl; and her son David.

She is survived by : her children, Mark Tjoelker (Elaine) of Australia, Rod Tjoelker (Tenda) of Bellevue, Dan Tjoelker (Stephanie) of Columbus, Shari (Ray VanderKooi) of Grand Rapids, MI and Elizabeth Tjoelker of Lynden; her grandchildren, Lindsey VanderKooi, Ben Tjoelker (Kaleigh), Madeleine Tjoelker, Alison Petrea (Garrhett), Nico Tjoelker (Alice), Adam Tjoelker, Abby VanderKooi, Elise Tjoelker, Matthew Tjoelker and Ian Tjoelker; her great grandchild Claira Tjoelker; her siblings, Alida Dahl, Sharon Ridder, Bill Ridder (Anne), Jerry Ridder (Martha) and Walter Ridder (Diane); and her siblings-in-law, Kathy Ridder, Thelma Ridder and John Balzer. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Memorial contributions may be made to Whatcom Hospice, Project Hope in Lynden, or the charity of your choice.