Ruth Walters

Ruth Marie Walters (Michels), age 92 of Appleton, WI joined His heavenly kingdom on November 3, 2026. She was born to Peter and Eva (Schuman) Michels on September 14, 1934 in Polar, WI. After graduating high school, she worked several jobs through her life, but was best known for her work as the secretary at Faith Lutheran Church until her retirement when she turned 79. Ruth met the love of her life, James “Jim” Walters through her brother, and they were married in October of 1956. Together, they raised 3 wonderful boys.

There was never a person that Ruth didn’t like and who didn’t like her in return. She was a wonderfully optimistic person who always found the good in everyone and everything. -Ruth enjoyed family get-togethers and really thrived as the matriarch, cooking and baking during holidays. She also treasured her time out on the town with her friends whenever they could get together. You could often find Ruth out in her yard, tending to her flower gardens. More than anything, though, Ruth loved her family and cherished every moment she could spend with her kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids. She was so proud of everyone she helped to raise.

Ruth will be deeply missed by her sons, Michael (S.O. Bambi), David (Lauralyne), and Steven; her grandchildren, Derek (Megan), Chandra (Kirby), Parker, Holli, Nicholas (McKenzie), and Austin; Donovan, Clayton, Colton, and Avery; her sister, Rosemary; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends.

Ruth is preceded in death by her husband, Jim; her parents, Peter and Eva; her parents-in-law, Jake and Ruth; her siblings, Julius (Lorriane) and Delores; and her brother-in-law, Glenn.

A funeral visitation will be held for Ruth the night before the service from 3-6 PM on Thursday, November 12, 2026 at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St, Appleton, WI 54911 with a brief prayer service to be held at 6 PM. A second funeral visitation will be held from 9-11 AM on Friday, November 13, 2026 at Faith Lutheran Church, 601 E. Glendale Ave, Appleton, WI 54911 with a funeral service to follow at 11 AM. Ruth will be laid to rest with her husband at Highland Memorial Park in Appleton, WI following the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Salvation Army in honor of Ruth.

Ruth will be forever remembered as a woman who loved everyone and was loved in return. Until we meet again, Ruth will be deeply missed.