Ruth M. (Kroekel) Kochalka SPRINGFIELD, VT -Ruth Marion (Kroekel) Kochalka passed away after a very short hospice, surrounded by loving family at Monadnock Community Hospital on Friday, September 29, 2023 at 11:30 AM. She was predeceased by her loving husband John Kochalka, and her sister Gertrude Baker. She is survived by her sister Marguerite Kroekel (102), her 3 sons, John, Peter, and James Kochalka, and her daughter Jane Quigley, as well as 7 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and one great, great grandson. During her life, anyone who knew Ruth appreciated her love for all that is beautiful from flowers, to quilting fabrics, brightly colored puzzles, and her flamboyant flair for colorful attire. Her value went beyond her own pleasure and was evident in Ruth’s genuine regard for others, her ingrained generosity, her avid interest in volunteering and serving through various organizations, and making her mark on the world in her ardor to further peace and joy and helping women to become strong and able to find their own inner power. She was a joy to her children, her grandchildren, her great grandchildren, and her great, great grandson all of who took every opportunity to spend time with her. As she aged and was less able, she took joy in hearing the stories of their interests and activities and found her appreciation of life a constant friend. We were blessed to have family time with her before her passing and were able to reflect on those family values that she instilled in us. Every tear we shed was surrounded by the joy she had in just being near us. Right up until her last breath. There will be a memorial service held in her honor at her home church in Deering NH on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 11:00 AM. The church is the Deering Community Church, UCC, 763 Deering Center Road, Deering, NH 03244. There will be a reception with a light lunch to follow and guests are invited to bring something to share. Remember her great love of color and wear your most cheerful, colorful, flowery attire!
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