Susan C. McCausland Roger found this first family picture taken with grandpa Hector after Ruthie was born🥰she was a welcome addition to this clan 🙏🏻
Vicky Sahami 1st grade with Mrs. Allen, Lowell Elementary. I remember no details other than having you as my friend from this point on.
Susan C. McCausland Rog said this was an example of how Ruthie brought calm to their chaos ie. McCausland happy face pics😂🥰
Vicky Sahami 2nd grade with Mrs. Dorn at Lowell. Rocking those spectacular pigtails!
Susan C. McCausland Rog & Ruthie at the cottage. So many pics we have of the different gatherings of the families there over the years. Rog said their family was so blessed to have that place for the many memories made there. 🥰
Vicky Sahami 5th grade with Mrs.Henning at Lowell.
Vicky Sahami Old Chicago - the world's first indoor amusement park! And it was close to us! and we were tweens/teenagers! A perfect storm of coincidences that lured us there several times... unfortunately I have no photos. (It was only open from 1975-1980)
Ruth and I went to Confirmation Camp together. We fooled around and got into some mischief….but we learned a lot too. Such as We are limited but God is unlimited! Thinking of this important truth now.💛
Jackie Lobono A lifetime of smiles and pure joy, Ruthie made everything fun growing up together 🤩
Shelly Thompson Ruthie, Ellie and all of us Tigerettes had such a blast!!!
Julie Shelby Wrestling cheerleading 1982 - Junior year at Wheaton Central
As Shelly’s mother, I have decided to share my memories of when Ruthie, Shelly, and Ellie were in Tigerets (1982-83) together at Wheaton Central High School. I usually did not go to the games, but I would make sure I was there for half time when the girls would perform their Pom Pon routine. The three of them looked like they were having so mu...
Dawn Westlake I was just looking at these pix of Ruthie from the 1982 WCHS yearbook. Besides always being so loving and a solid team member, it’s pointed out that her concentration and commitment was unparalleled. It’s even in the captions! ❤️
Susan McCausland Before she was the Norwegian Princess she was Homecoming Queen…
Molly Boed Ruth and I had a fabulous time going to Homecoming at Wheaton North with Kevin Huck and Peder Danielsen.
Betsy Schmeling-Raymond Ruthie was a better dresser than me. ;-)
Maureen Olund Freshman Yr at EIU
Shelly Thompson Ruthie is all play but when it comes to her work ethic, she ain’t playin’ around! While many of us goofed around in art class and track, Ruthie remained focused and encouraged the rest of us to do our best! Thanks Ruthie Luv!
Sharon Shattuck Spring break in high school. We drove to Florida. Ruthie always had a smile no matter the weather. She made the best of every situation.
Susan McCausland This pretty much sums up Ruth, Best All Around.
My memories of Ruth go back to her first day at Eastern Illinois University in August 1983. I was lucky to have Ruth as my roommate for that year and we have remained friends ever since. I don't think I have met anyone as happy, positive, and blessed with unwavering faith! Lucky for me, we have lived only a couple of towns away from each other, ...
Maureen Olund Spring Break - took the bus to Daytona
Jackie Lobono A beautiful young maid of honor , in my wedding - a special day together
Shelly Thompson What a blessing to have Ruthie and others stand up and be my bride’s maids. All The Luvs had a great time !
Shelly Thompson Ruthie and The Luvs “ planned and hosted my baby shower at the Larry Residence! Such a great time we had !!!
Maureen Olund Jr Yr @ EIU - Housemates...Ruthie made me a birthday cake
Wesley Douglas One of my earliest memories of Ruthie involved the colorful candy M&Ms. Ruthie and I worked together at an art studio and I could always hear her laughing. And she always had a two pound bag of M&Ms at her desk. Once a day she would walk around the office and offer M&Ms to everyone saying “You look like you could use some M&Ms!” This is how Ruth would spread joy in an office where demanding clients and deadlines can put people in a bad mood. Ruth would have none of this negativity—only smiles and laughter. Each little round candy has an “M” imprinted on it which, I believe, eventually stood for “Mike,” who started working with us and would become the man she would marry.
Maureen Olund Ruth sent this to me along with a few other pics. Ruth + Mo + Karolyn at Karolyn's apartment in Chicago
One of my favorites memories - Ruthie and I were roommates after college 1987 - as a teacher I would receive gifts at holiday time. I often got Frango mints - more than I could eat during vacation, so I put them in the freezer. Ruth loved Frangos - she would enjoy one every so often. A week or so later I went to eat one and the box was half gone- I...
My first time meeting Ruth is also how I will remember her. Mike introduced her to me at Iowa State. As I said hello, she smiled at me. It looked like she was missing about 5 teeth because they had been eating chocolate chip cookies and she had used several cc's to cover her teeth. It brings a smile to my face, just as she did for those around ...
Beth F Found this letter(poem) and picture as we were cleaning out our home of 35 years. Mike and Ruth, your love continues to this day! May God bless you with His Divine Peace 💕💕🙏 Greg and Beth
Susan C. McCausland Before Mike & Ruth were engaged, he took her on a trip to the west coast to meet his family members in the Seattle area. She asked if they could come visit her brothers family in Spokane where Rog was attending college & to meet her new nephew, our oldest, Rich. Rog & I thought, this guy must be really serious about her to drive her all that way🥰and they even got to show us a cheer trick. They told us to watch from our front porch, ok how do we do that when there’s an 8 foot hedge between us & the road where you are? Ruth asks, “are you ready?”, sure our response. Then all of a sudden we see Ruthie flying in the air over the height of the hedge, laughing her head off!and so we’re we! They were so happy they pulled off the stunt & we were glad they were both in one piece. Grateful to Mike for bringing her🥰🙏🏻
George&Nancy Maddock Mike and Ruthie get engaged! Nice Limo!
Maureen Olund Boat Party
George&Nancy Maddock Ruthie (and Mike's) wedding shower at the Maddocks.
Julie Shelby June 15 1991- Ruth was a bridesmaid in my wedding. One month later she married Mike. We had so much fun planning our weddings together.
Susan C. McCausland At Ruth & Mike’s rehearsal dinner, joking around with uncle Jim McCausland. The joy of the Lord was always her strength🥰🙏🏻🙌🏻🙏🏻
Martha Harnik Leandra, Maureen, the Beautiful Bride Ruthie, Karolyn, Sue, Martha and Anne
Martha Harnik Ha ha! Where did you go Maureen?
Maureen Olund Ruth & Mike's wedding
Julie Shelby Ruth and Mike’s wedding day! July 1991
George&Nancy Maddock Wedding day!
George&Nancy Maddock First we get a boat, then we get a house.
Robin Liefeld We first met Ruthie (and Mike) at Grace Bible Church where we were part of a young marrieds group. Lots of board games and shenanigans followed!
Beth F Beautiful and crazy Ruthie! With our youngest daughter Julie! Love you 💕💕
George&Nancy Maddock Christmas 1992
George&Nancy Maddock Maddock family at Ann Marie and Tom's wedding.
George&Nancy Maddock Ruthie and Mike on the town!
Maureen Olund Sushi's wedding
George&Nancy Maddock Ruthie and Mike at ISU.
Maureen Olund Karolyn + Ruth + Anne
George&Nancy Maddock Trip to Canada.
Maureen Olund Anne's wedding - Ruth + Martha + Karolyn
Dawn Countryman Many wonderful memories in Green Lake; Ruth - always the brightest ray of sunshine!
Dawn Countryman Many wonderful memories in Green Lake; Ruth - always the brightest ray of sunshine!
Dawn Countryman Many wonderful memories in Green Lake; Ruth - always the brightest ray of sunshine!
Susan C. McCausland So many miles separated our families & sometimes years. We didn’t get to spend much time but tried to make sure we could when available. Mike & Ruthie were on the west coast visiting Mike’s family so we arranged meeting for lunch in Tacoma, as we were now living in Shelton where Rog was teaching & coaching🥰this was the summer before Gunner was born🙏🏻I 🤔 think, at the Tacoma museum. Rich & Nick have learned “McCausland goofy picture face” well!
Martha Harnik One of our Christmas get-togethers at Maggiano's.
Maureen Olund Baby shower for Ruth & Mike when pregnant with Gunnar.
I have so many great memories of Ruth-most being the times spent at the cabin in Green Lake. One time in particular on the trampoline with Ruth and two of our kids. Ruth was not yet a mom but it was so evident that she was going to be a terrific mom. I will never forget her infectious laugh-Ruth could always turn any situation into more fun.
George&Nancy Maddock Gunnar's first visit to a pumpkin patch
George&Nancy Maddock Gunnar's baptism.
Mike we didn’t get to spend much time together after ISU, but when we were together it was always fun and always obvious that Ruthie was exactly who you needed. I will always remember after Monica and I got married HiRize through a party for us at Mia and a bunch of us got together that night and had a great time. The next morning Monica talked abo...
Lorri Berg Ed and I met Ruth and Mike at Grace Bible Church in the young married couples group called Kindred Spirits. We were a small group and became very close. Ruth and I also attended our weekly Ladies’ Bible Study. We both loved getting to know the older ladies at our church and learning from their wisdom. Here we are at one of our yearly trips to Geneva to shop and have lunch at the Little Traveler. Ruth and I also attended many weekend ladies retreats together. Her sister Martha came too!
I started dating Liz (Lizard) who was the first employee at Maddock/Douglas. She invited me to a Company party in 1999 in which there were numerous new employees and vendors. Ruth took the time to come over and start a pleasant conversation in order to make me feel welcome. I will never forget her welcoming warm personal vibe and beautiful smile…�...
Susan C. McCausland Poppy’s 65th birthday party at the farm where we all gathered for a celebration 🎉🇺🇸And then we all went up to the cottage for a couple days. Ruthie loved these events so much🥰
Mike Maddock From George & Nancy Maddock: Christmas 2000
Amy Espersen Ruth is pictured here with Jill, both were my youth leaders from 1999-2003. Ruth’s joy captivated me & created a safe, fun space for me to be myself. She took me under her wing and we worked on many skits together (including the infamous purity skit😂). Ruth, thank you for loving me just the way I was, a quirky kid who didn’t quite fit in with the rest. You forever impacted me with your kindness & love. I loved spending time with you, babysitting the boys, and seeing you expand your family through adoption (I even spent a few years working as a pregnancy support & adoption social worker). Your warmth & joy has always brought light wherever you were. -Amy (Miura) Espersen
When you lived on Walnut Rd. and the kids were young, we would stand at the bus stop and chat away. Even after the bus picked up the kids, we would continue our chat about what was going on in our lives. I enjoyed your laugh, positivity and love of life.
Martha Harnik The Girlies used to get together every 3rd weekend of the month and do a craft. Here we were at the pottery place in Downers Grove. Peggy, Ruthie, Martha, Sue, Anne, Karolyn and Sushi.
George&Nancy Maddock Welcome Cody!
George&Nancy Maddock Walt Disney World with a 4-day old baby.
Susan C. McCausland Mike & Ruthie & the boys came out for a visit & we got to meet Cody for the first time🥰 this was a special connection Ruthie & I had, mother’s of 2 sons. I was thankful that even though the miles were between us, we could talk on the phone & share our 💕 hearts. We got to go to the pacific coast beach 🏖 at Grayland & Westport, have some fun building sand castles & enjoying each other’s company 🙏🏻
Michael and Gunnar started school at Ben Franklin. Ruth recognized me from EIU and showed up the next day outside in an EIU shirt to see if I made the connection. That was Ruth, if she met you once she remembered you for life and was quick to reconnect and catch up. Ben Franklin never placed Michael and Gunnar in the same classroom together again b...
George&Nancy Maddock
George&Nancy Maddock Ruthie, Gunnar, and Cody
George&Nancy Maddock Ruthie and Mike in Green Lake.
George&Nancy Maddock Disney at Thanksgiving time.
Mike Maddock Visiting family in Seattle a young momma takes her cubs to Pike's Marketplace
Alysia Lambert I had a very unique relationship with Ruthie, one that i will hold close to my heart forever. She is someone very easy to talk to. I will be forever grateful for her. It was hard to pin down a memory. I have a few i enjoyed.
Susan McCausland My memories of Ruth started at Wheaton Central High School when she oversaw Wrestling cheerleader tryouts. I was a freshman and she was a senior. Who knew 10yrs later she would be in my wedding when I married her brother. I always thought my first daughter Megan looked more like Ruth than me.
George&Nancy Maddock Family photo.
Mike Maddock Ruthie fulfills a childhood dream by dancing with Minnie Mouse on a family vacation.
No photos... just one fond memory with Ruthie... and, one with Mike... I can pretty accurately estimate that I met Mike and Ruthie at Grace Bible Church in Elmhurst IL, in September of 1992, or September of 1993. We were friendly aquatintaces, sometimes involved in the same activities/events at church, and/or with churchmates outside of church. ...
Katerina Haley Our ski trip to Snow Mass with all of the kids! The late night sleigh ride through the mountains, racing down the mountain, putting the kids in ski club and having time with Mike and Ruth. ❤️
George&Nancy Maddock Christmas and a new puppy.
George&Nancy Maddock Jamaican Trip. Rastafarians.
Jennifer Shanahan Ruth, I loved coaching soccer with you! It was so much fun even though it was only one season. You are so bubbly, happy and full of joy all the time that you made it sup fun for our team in spite of our record!! You are the best! Eric and I keep you, Gunnar and the rest of your family in our prayers daily. All of our love to you and all the Maddock Family.
Ruthie was my youth group leader at Parkview and made such a difference in my life. Her joy at knowing the Lord and love for others inspired me often. She was a bright light in some of my darker teenage days and I’ll forever be grateful for her example. Her and Mike also came to the restaurant I worked at frequently and Ruthie would always greet me...
George&Nancy Maddock Trip to Alaska.
George&Nancy Maddock Ruthie and Mike!
Lizzie O'Hara-Boyce Fondly remembering your visit to France in July 2009. Such a lovely family, then and now, full of love and grace and kindness. I'm sending my love to you all and a very special hug to Ruthie, whose radiant smile shone more brightly than all the sunflowers in Provence <3
Jen McNulty Ruthie and I coached our boys in soccer- that is how we met. Of course during the pandemic she brought me beautiful masks to wear- and one day we wore the same mask. I’ll treasure these glimpses at our friendship.
My wife Maureen, introduced me to Ruthie about 12 years ago. I immediately was captivated by her magic smile. Her whole face smiled, and her eyes sparkled. I felt her love and comfort. A favorite memory was at someones wake. I wish I had a picture of her doing this at someones wake, but I'm sure someone does. She walked up to me at the wake refres...
Sharon Brodeski We first met Mike and Ruthie at a YPO event in 2010 and had the privilege of sharing many more years of YPO together. We are all better people having had Ruthie in our lives.
George&Nancy Maddock Maddock Family Christmas card.
Jenni Suvari Ruthie has the gift of making you feel so special when you're in her presence. For my birthday about a dozen years ago, she made me one of her flower pins. Her thoughtfulness and authenticity is unparalleled. We love you, Ruthie! Jenni and Will Suvari
Mike Maddock Mike and Gunnar are on a father-son trip, so Ruthie takes Cody on "a date" to Dave & Busters. She wanted Cody to learn how to treat a lady on a date.
Mike Maddock Hitting the Socket Salmon on our trip to Bowen Island.
katelyn Reist Our Annual Thanksgiving Hike
Mike Maddock What do you do for Ruthie's birthday? Take the kids back to Disney. This time, Cody was all-in!
Mike Maddock Let's make daddy some dinner!
Mike Maddock Magical family time in Tuscany.
Mike Maddock Ruthie takes on Sienna.
Anne Connelly More pics from Maureen & Jim’s rehearsal dinner ❤️
Maureen Olund Mo + Jim's rehearsal dinner
Tony Perry Every time Ruthie is in attendance, you know you will hear laughter, see dancing, feel the great joys in life and taste all that is special in our world. Yes, Ruthie is an joyful experience for all senses. From the smallest of details in her flower broaches to the broad strokes of her happy dance moves, she is an artist that uses multiple media to create joy and love. Dee and I each have our “Ruthie” stories, times where she made us feel her joy. Her joyful moments will live forever in our hearts. We included a couple of pics that were from silly times at YPO events. But our good times happened in many places over the nearly 20 years of knowing you both. We are grateful for all you have added to our lives and to the lives of everyone whose been fortunate to spend a joyful moment with you. You both have made this a better more joyful place!
Anne Connelly Christmas party at Marc & Anne’s house. What a great time!
katelyn Reist Memories from our trip to Alaska! Loved being able to see the seals and we kayaked together ❤
Ruthie took us to see her beautiful new home in Glen Ellyn. Her favorite room of the house was the laundry room, where she emphatically confessed that she loved to do laundry! Ever since then when I do laundry, I think, if Ruthie loves it, maybe I can too! So thank you, Ruthie, for making the daunting chore of laundry that much better!
Mike Maddock WAIT FOR IT...The opening procession at the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul. A formal presentation to usher in royalty. This one pretty much embodies what life was like with Ruthie as an adventure partner. Creds to buddy Nancy Kaney.
Charles Hall The adventures, many laughs and silliness in Istanbul, Turkey! Party’s in the Basilica Cistern, dinners along the Bosporus, and tours of the amazing markets. What a trip!
Thomas Cleary From the cisterns to the castle, loads of laughs in Istanbul
Christina Harbridge It was 2013. Ruth held (both) my hands at a YPO event as she poured into me in a very sweet moment. She drew this "box of okay" for me to remind me everything is ok. This is all Ruth, so open and caring... so willing to hold on to people. So much love.
Bob Pison Family Thanksgiving on the farm.
Mike Maddock We celebrated our 23rd anniversary with a trip to Machu Picchu. The next day, young Cody and Gunnar climbed to the top of Huayna Picchu and took in quite view!
Mike Maddock In October of 2014, Mike took a solo trip into Quetico Park. Five days later, Ruthie, Gunnar, Cody and Ralph met Mike and they spent another week in the park together. One of their favorite places was Curtain Falls.
Maureen Olund Ruth's 50th!
Anne Connelly Ruth’s 50th birthday in Las Vegas…what blast!
Mike Maddock Who has better hand-eye coordination, Ruthie or Cody? Let's find out! Ruth was always game for any type of competition.
Mike Maddock SURPRISE!!! A whole bunch of buddies show up to celebrate Ruthie's big birthday in Vegas. Bonus meeting with Donnie and Marie.
Mike Maddock NYC for Mike's Bday.
Mike Maddock First cast with the Walmart Zebco in the back yard.
Mike Maddock July 4th in Green Lake
Greta Tobin Ruthie and I went to Ecuador for a medical mission trip with Timmy Global Health. Ruthie quickly became friends with all of the locals and played with the kids we were treating. She didn’t speak Spanish and they didn’t speak English, but the love and joy between them was beyond words!
Charles Hall Thank you for the special memories from our YPO Medical mission trip in Quito, Ecuador and along the Amazon river. So much fun while making a difference!
Susan McCausland Ruthie and I could always share our love for animals. Here she is with one of Megan’s chickens at the 4-H fair.
Jackie Fischer Ruthie’s brother Ralph and his family are so important to so many of us in the Charleston area. We’ve been fortunate enough to meet Ruthie through the years at family events and learned first hand about her energy and boundless love during these get-togethers. When we looked up pictures from Ian and Molly’s wedding to post here we were not surprised that Ruthie was a blur in some of them…our experience is that she blurred the lines for all relationships. She made us feel loved and important because we are important to her brother and his family…what an inspiring approach as we all walk each other home. RIP, Ruthie - thank you for sharing your spirit with us all.❤️
Jackie Lobono Loved Rockin the Christian concerts with the best dancing friend around!
Mike Maddock Meeting Daisy for the first time at George and Sue McCausland's in Genoa.
Mike Maddock Pick of the litter! Daisy for the win!
Mike Maddock Visiting Fort Collins with Gunnar. He chose CSU. Ruthie always dreamed of living in Colorado, so she was thrilled to have a son in the state.
Mike Maddock Ruthie and Gunnar share a love for small, delicate things.
Mike Maddock Sports mom extraordinaire.
Mike Maddock Ruthie watching Cody play baseball and little ones playing with Daisy. She never, EVER, missed a game.
Mike Maddock Gunnar graduates from Glenbard West.
Mike Maddock Ruthie and Hannah getting a little son while Cody keeps them moving.
Geir Follesø From when Ruth & her 3 boys visited us in Bergen 2017. Loving memories ❣️
Cruise on the lake with EO Thrive. Spent time with Mike and Ruthie inside first floor on the dinner cruise. I remember their harmony as a couple and Ruthie’s warm smile. I had spent time that day identifying my core pillars and harmony was one of them. Was nice to spend time with a couple who owned that pillar! God bless the Maddock family and ...
Jackie Lobono I loved visiting the shows and seeing all the amazing creations in “ Ruthie’s Garden” So talented - beautiful unique pins, pillows , sweaters and decor . Everyone loved visiting her booth - esp me :)
Dancing and laughing at a mutual friends 40th birthday like we were the only two on the dance floor! Thank you Ruthie for always finding such joy and laughter!
I met Ruthie at Parkview womens bible study. When? Good question. I'm guessing 5 years ago. What positive energy and smile and warmth she has. You just have to be happy around her. And then her dance visit during covid - crazy fun!
Anne Connelly Sue and Steve’s rehearsal dinner and wedding in Lake Geneva.
Mike Maddock From our friend Maria Limouris: No one can spark joy like Ruthie. Here is Ruthie in a nutshell. Celebrating life to the fullest as Mike lovingly looks on. ❤️
Maureen Olund Beautiful the Musical & Lunch - Ruth - Anne - Mo - Karolyn - ran into Sushi at lunch
Shelly Thompson Girls Weekend in Colorado with the Luvs !!!! We had such a great time!!!!!
Anne Connelly Pictures along the Chicago River on our way to see Carole King “Beautiful “.
Jackie Lobono Years of fun and laughs on our girls weekends
Julie Shelby We were on our girls trip in Colorado and posed for a picture.
Mollie Stromberg On our YPO trip to Mayakoba in 2018, Ruthie made me get on a Swan float despite my hesitation. On our way ti dinner we all posed in front of the Frida Kahlo mural and then at the restaurant we were surrounded by spiritual icons. Ruthie looks so beautiful in the center giving off her glow to all around. Love you dear Ruthie! Thank you for all your love and belief will be watching for your signs! Here are some quotes from Frida that I thought Ruthie & Mike & the boys might appreciate. 😇🖊💕🖼🌎🎶 💃🏻 “At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can.” “Nothing is absolute. Everything changes, everything moves, everything revolves, everything flies and goes away.” “Nothing is worth more than laughter. It is strength to laugh and to abandon oneself, to be light.” “You deserve the best, the very best, because you are one of the few people in this lousy world who are honest to themselves, and that is the only thing that really counts.” “They thought I was a Surrealist, but I wasn't. I never painted dreams. I painted my own reality.” “I am that clumsy human, always loving, loving, loving…….”
Damon Gersh My son Daniel and I loved getting to meet, know and work with Ruthie at 'Homes of Hope' in Mexico. She was so beautiful, caring and kind and worked so hard while taking care of everybody who was there. May her memory forever be a blessing to you and your family
Julie Shelby We went to Colorado for girl’s weekend. We hiked the Rocky Mountains and experienced the breathtaking views and Continental Divide.
Stacie Wilson This photo was taken on a ferry going from Seattle to a nearby island for a night of YPO festivities. It was cold and damp but we were having a great time with our wine, laughing and taking pictures of the beautiful area. It was an evening of hearty laughter and, of course, dancing! A precious memory I hold dear.❤️
Anita Novicki Had a great time with the girls from high school. Laughter just brought you right back. Lots of fun that will never be forgotten.💜
Shannon Lamar- Moyano It was always so much fun playing alongside Ruthie in our praise and workshop band “The Blessings”. We always had so much fun dancing and goofing around together.
Lynn Dugan It’s football season, we were in the stands watching our boys play on the sophomore team at Glenbard West. It was my birthday, and Ruthie surprised me with this handmade lavender sachet (made with her repurposed cashmere). I specifically treasure the single word stamped on the tag, JOY. That is what Ruthie brought to everyone she met! 💛
Shelly Thompson More fun with The Luvs in Green Lake !!!! Thanks for all the incredible memories , Ruthie , Mike and The Luvs!!!!
katelyn Reist Enjoying the beautiful day at the beach after a family wedding.
Karen Grane I have a specific memory of dancing with Ruthie on the stage in Austin at a YPO retreat that always puts a smile on my face❤️ I would look for Ruthie at every YPO get together as I always enjoyed everything about her!! She is such a kind, beautiful ray of sunshine 🙏🏻
Julie Shelby Girls trip in Green Lake- we made sure to have all food groups represented. Donuts and veggies- what else do you need!
Shelly Thompson This pretty much sums up lovely Ruthie !!! Ruthie drew this heart for Mike on their wedding anniversary!!!!
Tony Lillios Through a blustery storm we had a blast tearing it up at Heavenly.
elizabeth schwartz I don’t have a photo but maybe someone else does. We all went to Austin with our Heartland group in May 2019. We had a great dance party one night and Ruthie bounced into the room dressed like Madonna in a costume that she made herself at the last minute. Totally adorable like she is! She thought it would be fun and it sure was! Nobody could pull off the outfit or the dancing like she could! You brighten up every space you enter and are full of more love and positivity than anyone I know. We all were lifted up by your wonderful smile and energy that night. So special!❤️
Julie Shelby Crazy times on the water in Green Lake
Julie Shelby Girls trip fun!
William Maddock
Mike and Ruthie just enjoying each other’s company. Ruthie told me she could be anywhere as long as it was with Mike. I remember thinking, “ That’s Love!” ❤️
Ellen Tobin A magical trip to Europe summer of 2019. So grateful for the memories! 🌻💕
Eden Keefe I love this picture of my Mom & Ruthie at my sisters wedding. We danced all night 💕
Andy Stueland The cousins at Paige's wedding. Can't forget the dancing with Ruth!!
Jill Marshall Thanksgiving at grandpa Dick’s farm. Ruthie was by far the most animated, talented (and competitive ) fish bowl charade contestant I’ve ever seen♥️
Ellen Tobin Christmas in Chicago 2019
Shelly Thompson Many of us (family, friends and strangers ) were so blessed to receive one of Ruthie’s “ Hope Stones” during Covid . Ruthie always wanted people to share in the hope that comes from our dear Lord 💛🙏
Jackie Lobono I loved her visits out to my house , seeing Ruth zip up in her bright yellow Mini Cooper- full of smiles and energy filled my heart . She usually was sporting a super cute hat too ; adorable always even during the pandemic 😷
Dave Fabry If my memory serves me correctly, Cody was participating in a kicking camp in Las Vegas in January, so It was only natural that Mike graciously offered to speak at a conference that Starkey was putting on at the Cosmopolitan Hotel. The additional benefit was that I got to have dinner with the Norwegian Princess at the Jose Andreas restaurant (Jaleo) in the hotel. We laughed SO hard and I wish we could’ve spent the entire evening in each other’s company. Two days later (January 18th), i failed miserably in getting Ruthie an introduction with Matthew McConaughey and Jon Bon Jovi, but we still got to share a\drinks and laugh some more. My only regret is that I don’t have a photo from that evening. As Simon and Garfunkel said, however, "Time it was, and what a time it was, it was A time of innocence, A time of confidences Long ago, it must be, I have a photograph Preserve your memories; They're all that's left you” Godspeed Ruthie, and thank you for the the memories that I will hold dear forever. I feel privileged to have met you.
Josephine Rocska Ruthie came to my house and said let’s dance on the lawn. Wonderful day.
Lynne Gunn Receiving the beautiful surprise art on our front porch..
Penelope Sandoz Celebrating Ruthie’s birthday during lockdown 2020…. Nothing could keep us Jesus Girls apart!
Brad Handelman I loved how Ruthie came right over to Dance with 90 year old Oma as she was stuck in the house during Covid. Ruthie lit up every room she had been in ~ especially with her dance skills.
Penelope Sandoz Ruthie trying to teach me to be an artist… she made me feel like I was one on this day in my backyard patio painting and laughing. Always the encourager, Sweet Ruthie. 💛
Anne Connelly Ruthie loved her M&Ms ❤️
I met Ruth at the Woman's Club of Evanston Holiday Bazaar. She was always busy because she gave us such great energy and had the cutest flower pins. I have probably half a dozen through the years and a poncho sweater. I then approached her to make personal pins with my last grandmother's costume jewelry. What a treasure these are to me. I will alwa...
Shelly Thompson This pic would make Ruthie happy ! For many years I never noticed this local “ Ruth “ sign and then there it was one day !!! After that, I Randomly I would send this to make Ruthie and The Luvs chuckle . I remember one time in particular, Ruthie really appreciated seeing her road !
Carole Tobin After Ruthie and Wanda met, Ruthie realized she needed a trim....so off we went!
Lynn Dugan Our babies graduate from Glenbard West! ❤️
Carole Tobin Life was designed to be shared. Sharing it with Ruthie, Penny and Patti made it especially fun and we were never lacking in the laugh department! Ruthie abounded in joy and love!
Riva Tobin An actual angel so blessed to have her in my life
Riva Tobin Had to pull off to the side of the road on the way to Yellowstone for this beautiful picture :) So blessed to have aunt Ruth in my life 💕
Molly McCausland Aunt Ruthie was always loving on the kids. Here she is with Clooney Ruth McCausland.
Carole Tobin While Ruthie was wearing her electrode cap, it would often get hot. So, she bought some hats with built in fans to see if that might help! Cody was a trooper to let me grab this photo!
William Maddock Every home game Iowa State salutes a Military Hero of the game. Mike wrote an essay about our Dad and he was selected as the Military Hero. Captain George “Jumbotron “ Maddock was honored and Ruthie went to the game to cheer on her Father-in-law. Ruthie was the unsung Hero of the game that day.👏👏🥰
Carole Tobin We could never get enough walks around the beloved Lake Ellyn!
Maria Ferrante-Schepis Jim and I had the chance to have a fabulous "Friendsgiving" lunch in Elmhurst with Ruthie and Mike in November of 2021. We shared smiles, memories, laughs and lots of great food and wine.
katelyn Reist So grateful to have made many memories with Aunt Ruthie and Zelig! Those were wonderful visits this past year! ❤😍🥰😘
Lynn Dugan 'The joy of the LORD is our strength' Nehemiah 8:10 Ruthie's joy was her strength. The strength to love others well. Her faith in Jesus gave her the freedom to live with joy; to put herself out there and to not hold back. I learned this fact right away when we first met. Our youngest sons were in grade school- they were in the same Sunday school class at Parkview Community Church. We had so much in common and I truly loved her immediately. One thing we had in common was were were both students of the Spanish language (Ruthie desired meaningful conversations on her upcoming trip to Ecuador; and I desired the same for my next trip to Honduras). So, I was committed to working with a Spanish tutor 1 hour a week... Ruthie, however, was enrolled in a for-credit class at the College of DuPage (with homework, exams, and finals)! That blew me away! I realized then how truly remarkable she was, jumping fully into every opportunity. Flash forward many years, Parkview was hosting a World Vision 6K Run for Water. I called Ruthie, "Run with me"? She immediately responded, "SURE"! What I didn't know is she had been nursing an injury and hadn't fun in a few months. That was no problem for Ruthie. She ran, bringing her Golden Retriever Daisy along as our 'pacer'. We finished with smiles (all 3 of us). Truly, every memory of Ruthie is about JOY: making snow angels on a winter walk, breaking into spontaneous dance to a good song, giggles and belly laughs during heart to heart talks. She had a childlike delight in life, savoring every blessing. It was her trust in Jesus that increased her faith which increased her joy. This authentic joy remained even with an unthinkable diagnosis. Thank you, my dear sweet friend, for sharing your joy with me! Thank you for sharing your joy with all of us!
Shelly Thompson What a lovely visit Ruthie, Maria and I had that day! The green package made Ruthie and Mike very happy since it included homemade cookies from Ellie. Ruthie always loved her cookies!
Carole Tobin We all know how much Ruthie loved walking, no matter the weather. On this day, 4 of us went for a nice walk after a lovely snow. I made this angel and now it will forever remind me of Ruthie and the angel she was here on earth!
Sarah Garcia Ruthie practicing for worship before women’s bible study. Always such a joy to watch her worship.
Jill Caballero Ruthie loved to worship! She was such an amazing example of love to all who knew her and she was blessing in my life. Here she is with our Parkview Women’s Bible Study table.
Betsy Schmeling-Raymond My friend Sharon and I were fortunate to visit with Ruthie in May'22 (altho photo from April'22). She was just as cute and bubbly as ever. But what touched me the most is that Cody came over about every 20 minutes just to give her a big bear hug. Just out of the blue. It was so touching and such a testament of his deep love for his mama. One of my fondest memories of Ruthie when we were young, was watching her slalom-ski at their family cottage on Fox River. She inspired me to learn. There was nothing Ruthie couldn't do; she was so talented.
Julie Shelby Easter weekend came to visit Ruth. She was as happy and beautiful as ever
Carole Tobin Friendship created with Jesus at the center. Thank you Ruthie for showing us what love and joy and peace look like. We will forever miss you, but will see you again one day!
Julie Shelby Illini 4000 is a nonprofit that raises money for cancer research and patient support. My niece, rode (biked) across country this past summer as well as the summer of 2019. They ride each day for someone battling the terrible disease. They honored Ruth in May - here is the story shared on their page.
Ok I have 2 distinct memories of Ruthie (more but these are the 2 that pop into my head right away). First time I met you and Ruthie we were at dinner in oakbrook. It was the two of you, the Bechtels and another Mike. And our server was named Mike. Easy for me! 4 Mikes! As we we’re talking Ruthie asked what our love languages were . Lucky fo...
I grew up on Illinois Street, about 5 houses down from Ruthie's house. We had a great neighborhood with lots of kids, I was the awkward one. I have such fond memories of playing army by the water tower, barbies, and chipped beef or peanut butter for lunch at McCausland's. We got into mischief too, like throwing wet kleenex up to the ceiling to s...
Janet Weed
Janet Weed
Janet Weed
When I think of Ruthie, two words define her for me: the jubilance of her spirit and the joy shining from her eyes. Those two characteristics combine to create her unquenchable, infectious energy which makes her so very lovable.
Lynne Gunn My Ruthie’s Garden treasure.
I remember running into Ruthie at the store. I was chasing my little boy through the clothes rack and ran right into her! We hadn’t seen each other for years but hugged immediately. We started laughing because we happened to both be wearing overalls (which we both loved)!! From that time on we ran into each other here and there and always had a h...
Family and friends
Ruthie McCausland's purpose was "To Love". Her family and friends have all been touched in special ways by The Norwegian Princess. This timeline was created to be a place where you can share your favorite pictures, and memories of Ruthie.
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