Marian “Ruthie” DeTurk, 69, North Manchester, passed away February 9, 2024, surrounded by her family at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne. The daughter of Marion “Bud” and Esther (Shewman) Ireland Jr., Ruthie was born March 19, 1954, in Wabash.
Ruthie was incredibly determined and went back to school later in life to earn her GED. She supported her children, Cassidy and Elizabeth, by working as a certified nursing assistant for several healthcare facilities in the area. Her caring and outgoing personality contributed to her success in her career. She was also a gifted storyteller and could converse with anyone. She will be remembered for her excellent sense of humor and her many trips to the gas station for Diet Mountain Dew, candy bars, and Lay’s potato chips. Ruthie’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren adored her, and she loved them with all her heart. She was extremely proud of each and every one of them. She was a member of American Legion Auxiliary Unit #402 in Laketon for many years and attended Congregational Christian Church in North Manchester.
The loving memory of Ruthie DeTurk will be forever cherished by her daughters, Cassidy Ireland and Elizabeth Ireland, both of North Manchester; brother, Buddy Ireland, Wabash; sisters, Mary Dryden, Servia, Melinda Johnson, Indiana, and Maria Ireland, New Haven; grandchildren, Shailea Singleton, Derek Boisvert, Zander Ireland, Zayden Ireland, Hailyn Ireland, and Levi Baker; great-grandchildren, Aviah, Emily, Madison, Evelynn, and Azaiah; and her special friend, Steve DeTurk. Ruthie was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Gordon Ireland and David Ireland; and sister, Margaret Cartwright.
Family and friends may call Friday, February 16, 2024, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. Burial will be held at Laketon Cemetery, Laketon, Indiana at a later date.
For those who wish to honor the memory of Ruthie DeTurk, memorial contributions may be made to McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana 46962, to assist with final expenses.
The family of Ruthie DeTurk has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.
Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com