Richard Lee Ruth

Richard Lee Ruth, 58, of Westminster, Ca, passed away on July 31, 2021. Richard was born on February 9, 1963 in Washington Court House, Ohio to Henry Lee and Lila Madge Ruth. He was preceded in death by both of his parents and an infant brother Kevin Ruth. Richard is survived by his loving wife Michelle Ruth, his daughters, Ashley Ruth and Danielle Ruth as well as siblings, Terry(Ruthie) Kratzer of Cedarvill, Ohio, Danny Kratzer of Washington CH.,Ohio, Lila(Todd) Lawwell of Washington C.H.,Ohio, Cindy Aurand of South Salem, Ohio, Tammy Stiles of South Salem, Ohio, Robin (Mike) Diviney of Kansas City, Kansas, Mike Ruth of Kansas City, Kansas, and Kathy Taylor of Washington CH.,Ohio, many nieces and nephews, cousins and extended family and friends. He graduated in the class of 1981 from Washington Senior High School.

Richard, who was called Rick or Butch, started his career by serving in the United States Marine Corps as a Military Police Officer where he excelled in earning Letters of Appreciation, Badges, Medals, Ribbons and Commendations. Rick’s military career is what brought him to California. Once Rick finished serving his country, he started working as an Aircraft Mechanic for over 45 years. Rick started his career at McDonnell Douglas, spend a bulk of his career at Boeing and ending at Northrup Grumman.

While working at Boeing, Rick caught the eye of a lovely woman named Michelle Kelley. They fell in love and were married in June of 1996. Rick and Michelle celebrated their 25th anniversary this year.

While in the Marine Corps Rick found his love for guns and shooting competitions by earning many awards. Rick had just begun to start his gun collection for recreational use and family safety.

Rick also had a deep love and appreciation for Mustangs, attending many car shows and he purchased his beloved 2014 Mustang GT in 2018.

Rick also enjoyed fishing. He loved the peace and quiet of it and being near the water put him at peace. Rick was able to go to Alaska to fish for halibut earlier this year and was able to cross off one last bucket list item. Rick loved his family and friends fiercely and would do anything to help when he was needed. Rick was loved and accepted by all who met him and he will truly be missed by all.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.westminstermemorial.net for the Ruth family.