Ruth Erna Bartz

Ruth Erna Bartz, age 82 of Oak Center, entered eternal life on Saturday, October 30, 2010, at her home following a brief illness.

Ruth was born on February 28, 1928 at home in Oakfield, a daughter of Emil and Lucinda (Franke) Wiese. On June 5, 1948, she was united in marriage to Selon “Pat” Bartz in Oakfield, and they lived in that community until 1957 when they moved to Oak Center. Ruth was a loving wife and devoted mother, who enjoyed taking care of her household and maintaining her home and yard. She was employed for a time at the Huth James Shoe Factory in Waupun. Ruth was a longtime employee of the Oakfield Canning Factory. In her retirement, she took pride in caring for her home. She also spent much time with her sister, including playing bingo.

Ruth is survived by her only daughter Nancy Bartell, and her significant other, Jay Heinz both of Colgate, WI; one grandchild; two great-grandchildren; her sister Eleanor Schellpfeffer of Fond du Lac; a brother-in-law, Lee Lund of Stevens Point; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 1983; her parents; a son-in-law, Larry Bartell; her sister, Lucille Lund; her brother, Harvey (Doris) Wiese; and her brother-in-law, Roland Schellpfeffer.

A Celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 3, 2010 at St. Luke’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 245 Second Street, Oakfield, with Rev. Christopher Goelzer officiating. Burial will follow in the Oakfield Cemetery.

Ruth’s family will receive relatives and friends at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the hour of service.

Memorial donations have been designated for St. Luke’s Ev. Lutheran Church of Oakfield; and Agnesian Healthcare Hospice Hope, 239 Trowbridge Drive, Fond du Lac, 54935.

Ruth’s family appreciates and wishes to thank the 2nd Floor Nurses of the Waupun Memorial Hospital, Agnesian Hospice staff, and best friend and neighbor Betty Hoffman for the loving care and concern provided to Ruth.