Ruth Ann McCurry (Venzke) was a loving mother and friend. Ruth was born in June of 1950 in rural Wisconsin to Ernst and Mary Venzke. Her early years were spent on the farm, working hard, and attending a 1-room schoolhouse with her four brothers. As a young adult she lived and worked in Madison Wisconsin while three of her brothers were serving our country in the Vietnam war. Both Ruth and her mother Mary regularly sent tape recordings to Vietnam, which was a huge inspiration to her brothers in service.
Ruth married Donald Walraven in June of 1974, and together they sought out on a new adventure and moved out West to Seattle, Washington. Ruth remained in Washington, raising her 3 children. She loved the Pacific Northwest and all the area had to offer, especially the coast and listening to the waves of the ocean.
After many years in the city of Seattle, Ruth moved to Chimacum Washington, a small town on the Olympic Peninsula. Ruth purchased eight acres and began reconnecting with her country roots. She married Steve McCurry and enjoyed living a quieter life and the peace and solitude of living in the woods, surrounded by nature.
Ruth is preceded in death by her parents, and brothers Bill and Chuck Venzke. Ruth is survived by her brothers Herman and Donny Venzke, her three Children Faith O'Connell of Wentzville, MO, Jacob Walraven and LeAnne Arroyo of Seattle, WA, and by 5 grandchildren Elaina, Lauren, Michael, Luc, and Colin, as well as 3 great grandchildren Reagan, Kennedy, and Everett.
More than anything Ruth enjoyed being a mother and you would often find neighborhood kids at her house, playing with her children and being looked after by Ruth. She had always dreamed of being a school teacher and genuinely enjoyed caring for Children. With a warm nature and a big heart, she also never hesitated to tell you the truth. She was open and honest, good hearted and warm. She has made many friends in her time on this Earth and was truly enjoyable to be around. Ruth will be missed dearly by all of those she has touched including her dear family. She is gone, but will never be forgotten. She has left a lasting and loving impression on us all.
Ruth was cremated per her wishes in January of 2024. Her family is holding a celebration of life in Milan, Wisconsin on May 18, 2024 where Ruth will be laid to rest.
