Ruth R. Blackwood

Ruth Annette Blackwood (nee Ross) passed away peacefully January 21, 2024, at Shorehaven Retirement Community, Oconomowoc, WI, having recently celebrated her 94^th birthday with four generations of family present.  Born in La Crosse, WI, January 12, 1930, to the late Frank T. and Helen (Olsen) Ross, Ruth was the youngest of four, being preceded in death by Frances Ross, Arthur K. Ross, and Betty (Ross) Butler.

Ruth’s family moved to the Milwaukee area, where she graduated from Bay View High School and Milwaukee State Teachers College, becoming an elementary classroom teacher and a reading specialist after further education at Alverno College. Ruth taught in Milwaukee and later in Waukesha Public schools. She married James (Jim) Blackwood, Jr, August 7, 1954.  They were married 65 years until his death in 2020.

Ruth is survived by her four children: Margaret (Peter) Allen of Neenah, WI, Thomas (Angela) Blackwood of San Jose, CA, Kathryn (James) Monroe of Waukesha, and Andrew (Tracy) Blackwood of Waukesha. She is further survived by five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and her dog, Ellie.

Ruth was an avid quilter, creator of teddy bears, lover of dogs, and appreciator of excellent music. She was engaged in her community, volunteering at the public library, county courthouse, and Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum. Ruth was also a member of the First United Methodist Church and served as a teacher and Sunday School superintendent. Anyone that knew her recognized her humility, generosity, and thankful spirit.

Always shunning the limelight in life, Ruth’s wish in death was to have no memorial service. Rather, when you see a beautiful quilt, experience great music, or pet a friendly dog, please remember her. Donations in Ruth’s name may be made to The Salvation Army or to Waukesha Public Library https://waukeshapubliclibrary.org/friends_donate-to-the-friends/. 

Ruth’s family would like to give special thanks for the compassionate caregivers at Shorehaven, who encouraged her and treated her with dignity in her last years.