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HOWLAND -- Ruth Ella Gorman Benke, 92, passed away peacefully on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, at Hospice House in Poland.
Born Nov. 19, 1933, in Blair County, Pa., Ruth lived a life marked by devotion to her family, faith and community.
Ruth left school after the eighth grade to help support her siblings. Though she stepped away from formal education, she remained a lifelong learner and took pride in encouraging her children's academic pursuits, "earning" her high school diploma by helping her two sons with their homework. As a teenager, she sang on the radio in Altoona, Pa., reflecting a lifelong love of country music.
Ruth shared over 59 years with her husband, Joseph Benke, until his passing in 2017. Together they raised five children, Toni (Annie) St. Clair (Robert), Tracy (Benke) Schultz (Jeffrey), Scott Benke, Brad Benke (Brandi) and Thomas, who preceded her in death. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Lance, Meghan, Lauren, Thomas, Jonathan, Jackson, Delaney, Kyle, Tyler, Dylan, Jake and Joseph; her great-grandchildren, Alexis, Anthony, Jayden, Erik, Eric, Rowan and Micke; and her great-great-grandchildren, Luke and Leia.
In addition to her son, Thomas, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph; all four of her sisters; and her brother.
A devoted member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Warren, Ruth's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She taught Sunday school and vacation Bible school with enthusiasm, sang in the choir and contributed tirelessly in the church kitchen during countless gatherings.
Ruth embraced the simple joys that brought people together. She was an avid bowler for many years and was widely known for her cooking and baking, especially her apple pies and turkey dinners, which were treasured at every family gathering.
Her enduring love for family, unwavering faith and generous spirit will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Ruth will be interred next to her husband at a private ceremony in Arlington National Cemetery.
Ruth wished that donations be made to the Warren Family Mission or, alternatively, to Emmanuel Lutheran Church.
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