Ruth Jean Slifer (Fretz), age, 92, of Upper Black Eddy, PA, passed away on Thursday, August 18, 2022.

 

Born in Pleasant Valley, PA, Ruth was the daughter of the late Wilmer and Minnie (Mease) Fretz. Ruth married the Rev. Paul A. Slifer in 1950, after having graduated from Bethlehem Business College and served as a secretary of the Palisades School District. 

 

Ruth went with her husband to become a Lutheran Missionary in Liberia, West Africa where her two children were born.  Active with her husband’s training and hosting midwives in the mission field, she was also able to find time to teach the people to play volleyball and softball; if you know Ruth, you know her love of sports.

 

After returning from Liberia, she was a secretary for the Red Lion School District in York County, PA until 1972.  Later Ruth served as secretary for the Stroudsburg Area School District until she retired in 1992.   

 

Ruth retired to the Ottsville area to be close to her family in 1992 where she enjoyed bowling and being the biggest Phillies fan.  

 

Ruth was predeceased by her husband the Rev. Paul Slifer in 1972 and baby daughter, Rebecca, brothers Charles and James Fretz, and her parents.  She was also predeceased by her long-time companion, William Zimmerman.  

 

Ruth leaves behind her sister Esther Rush, a daughter, Jean (Vernon) Wehrung, and a son, David (Anne) Slifer. She was blessed with 5 grandchildren, Kelly Wehrung, Jeff (Kim) Wehrung, Jason Wehrung, Krissy (Dan) Nalesnik and Paul (Chrissy) Slifer.  Ruth also leaves behind 11 great-grandchildren, Paul, Daven, Ruthie, Lillie, Boone, Ammon, & Mae Wehrung along with Greg & Tess Nalesnik and Elaina & Luke Slifer; all affectionately called her GG or GiGi. 

 

 

Relatives and friends are invited to her Visitation on Wednesday, August 24th, 2022 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church 301 N. Main St. Doylestown, PA. 18901 at 10:00AM followed by her Funeral Service at 11:00AM.  Interment will immediately follow at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, 2170 Rt. 212 (Pleasant Valley) Coopersburg, PA.  

 

 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church or Neshaminy Manor Nursing Home Activity Fund 1660 Easton Rd. Warrington, PA. 18976. 

Arrangements by:  Donahue Funeral Home:  www.donahuefuneral.com