Ruth Charlene (Stirn) Rea, 91, of Lansing, Iowa passed away of November 24, 2017 at Thornton Manor in Lansing. Ruth Stirn was born on Sept. 19, 1926 at home on the farm in Lansing to George Stirn and Catherine (Wendler) Stirn. She graduated from the Waterloo School of Beauty in 1947 and opened a beauty shop in Lansing.
Ruth Stirn was married to William Rea on Oct. 24, 1950 in Lansing. They farmed for over 50 years near Churchtown. Ruth was a CNA at Thornton Manor for 18 years. She was also a 4-H leader, a volunteer with the church and an election official. Ruth liked to make quilts for the grandkids, crocheting and embroidery, and was also an avid card player in several card clubs. She enjoyed many family celebrations, traveling and spending time with her growing family.
Ruth was a loving wife, a caring mother and grandmother, and a friend to all. She found meaning in her faith, joy in her family and friends, and a home on the farm for over 91 years.
Ruth is survived by her children Ron (Nancy) Rea of Rochester, Minnesota, Greg (Jean) Rea and John (Janice) Rea, both of Lansing, Iowa, Linda (Al) Ludeking of Decorah, Iowa and Debra (Tim) McCune of Stoughton, Wisconsin, fifteen grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren.
Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, William Rea and son, Jerry Rea.
Visitation will be Monday, November 27, 2015 from 3-7 pm with a 3:00 pm Scripture Service and a 6:30 pm Rosary at Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Lansing, Iowa. There will also be a one hour visitation before mass at the church on Tuesday.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Lansing, Iowa with Rev. John Moser as the Celebrant.
Burial will follow at Gethsemane Cemetery, Lansing, Iowa.
Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service Lansing, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.