In Memory
Ruth Virginia Towne
July 3, 1923 - June 3, 2014
SOUTH BEND - Ruth Virginia Swikert, daughter of Charles Augustus Swikert and Verda Marie Williamson, was born on July 5, 1923, at Mother's Maternity Hospital in Battle Creek, Michigan.
She was the twin of Sylvia Rose Swikert, who passed away the following day. On June 5, 1941, she graduated from Washington-Clay High School in South Bend. After high school she attended Michiana College of Commerce and obtained a job working for National Discount Corporation in South Bend. She was baptized on May 23, 1942, at Community Congregational Church in South Bend, Indiana. On October 25, 1946, she married Clarence Raymond Towne, son of Howard William Towne and Jessie Mae Phillips at Community Congregational Church with Pastor Chas. H. Meeker officiating. Ruth was a member of the Order of Eastern Star in South Bend, and enjoyed lifelong friendships with members of the Merry-Go-Ground Bunco Club. Prior to her retirement she worked at the "Peacock" store at North Village Mall as a secretary.
She was an avid genealogist who left a wonderful legacy by spending many years developing her family history. She was a kind, gentle spirit who loved her family dearly. She appreciated the simple blessings that came her way and dealt with life's hardships with grace and acceptance.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her sister & her husband of 37 years, Clarence Towne. She is survived by three children: Charles (Jane) Towne of Brecksville, OH, Rebecca (Mark) Stradtner of Troy, MI and Terry (Martin) Nugent of Niles, MI; eight grandchildren: Edward (Rachel) Towne of Strongsville, OH, Kristen Towne of Brecksville, OH, Cameron (Shira) Nugent of Niles, MI, Ashleigh Nugent of Basel, Switzerland, Christopher Nugent of St. Joseph, MI, Erin (Kris) Barnes of Livonia, MI, Adam Stradtner of Kalamazoo, MI, & Andrew Stradtner of Jacksonville, FL; and three great-grandchildren: Adelynn, Koen & Emma.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 7th, at 1:00 p.m. at Community Congregational Church, 19671 Cleveland Rd., South Bend, followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m. A family graveside service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may made to Community Congregational Church, 19671 Cleveland Rd., South Bend, IN 46637.
07/02/2022 DEC
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