Ruth C. Haviland, age 92 of 955 E. John Street (Eagle Point Senior Living) Appleton, WI passed away on June 14, 2026.

Ruth was born May 14, 1934, in Evanston, IL to Alfred Daniels Crawford II and Barbara Bledsoe Crawford. She had two brothers, Alfred Daniels Crawford III and James F. Crawford, both deceased.

Ruth was married on May 1, 1953, to Richard Hafeman Haviland, deceased since May 2012. They enjoyed a long and incredibly happy marriage and often hosted memorable gatherings at their lovely family home on Lake Winnebago. Ruth was known for her cooking and studied French cuisine. She produced amazing, elegant dishes effortlessly.

Ruth was an award-winning community leader and volunteer in the Appleton Area. She served on many charitable boards and held various positions such as Fox Valley Symphony Business Manager, Fox Valley Technical College Foundation Director and Community Foundation of the Fox Valley Region CEO. Ruth was instrumental in establishing the Women’s Fund for the Fox Valley Region, a proud achievement. Ruth stood out for her meaningful career in business and service in an era when opportunities for women were rare. In turn, she mentored others.

Ruth and Dick had many close friends and were part of a large family on both sides. Ruth was the youngest of three children, while Dick was the eldest of nine. Ruth is survived by son Rick Haviland (Julie) of Kauai, and daughters Barbara Hartwig (Gary) of Appleton, Tory Haviland (Norman Christnacht) of Appleton and Peggy Maillet (Brian) of Whitefish Bay. Ruth and Dick’s beloved grandchildren called them Mimi & Papa and they are Nalani Hunsaker (Michael) (Kauai), Andy Hartwig (Madison), Allison Hartwig (Appleton), Olivia Maillet (Sedona), Ruby and Louis Maillet (Whitefish Bay).

Ruth was a proud great grandmother to the twins, Croix and Kaia and to Reagan residing in Kauai with their parents Nalani and Michael Hunsaker. Ruth and Dick had many loving nieces and nephews and enjoyed these special relationships.

The family wishes to express gratitude for the care team at Eagle Point Senior Living and St. Croix Hospice for the expert and loving care they gave our mother. A private memorial gathering will be held at a later date. If desired, contributions may be made in Ruth’s memory to the Ruth Haviland Fund for Women and Girls within the Women’s Fund for the Fox Valley Region, Inc. 4455 W Lawrence St., Appleton, WI 54914. (920) 702-7661 or Ruth Haviland Fund for Women and Girls