Stephens, Ruth E.

Ruth E. Stephens, 82, of Port Washington died Wednesday, November 3, 2004 at Heritage Health and Rehabilitation Center in Port Washington.

She was born October 28, 1922 in Durand, Wisconsin to William and Marie Leuberker Strese.  She graduated from Durand High School.  She met Leo M. Stephens of Elmwood, Wisconsin and on September 5, 1946 they were married in Durand.  The couple lived in Elmwood and started a family, and later moved to Eau Claire.  In the 1970’s they owned and operated the Green Top Supper Club in Iron Mountain, Wisconsin.  Retiring in 1978 they moved to Solon Springs, Wisconsin in Douglas County.  In 1996 they took up residence in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.  Leo preceded Ruth in death July 15, 1998.  In 2000 she moved to Port Washington to be near her daughter.

Ruth, remembered as a nurturer, was a master gardener and could make anything grow.  She had flower and vegetable gardens.  She enjoyed knitting and crocheting and made many mittens, sweaters and blankets through the years. 

She is survived by children Brenda Stephens of Milwaukee, WI, Mary Stephens of Fish Creek, WI, Terri (Jack) McCarthy of Port Washington, WI and Michael (Pam) Stephens of Vero Beach, FL.  Further survived by grandchildren Christian, Jonathon, Erin, Emily, Jessica, Brian and Adam, great grandchildren Aidan and Molly, a sister Thalice Nicklas of Durand, WI, other relatives and friends.  Preceded by her husband, a brother Bill Strese and sister Dorothy Hill. 

Rev. Allan Sommer will celebrate Mass of Christian Burial 7 PM Monday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Port Washington.  Interment Holy Cross Cemetery, Sheboygan.  Visitation 5:30 – 6:30 pm Monday at the funeral home. Memorials to Port Catholic School appreciated. 

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