Obituary of Ruth Marie Hileman

HILEMAN, Ruth Marie died at Peppi's House in Tucson on October 12, 2016, at peace and surrounded by love. She was born in 1918, one of six children born to Albert and Ella Staebler on their Michigan farm. Ruth graduated from Michigan State Normal College and received her B.S. in home economics in 1940. She married Walter Hileman in 1941, and thus began an extraordinary marriage that endured 60 years. When Walt was sent to Europe during World War II, Ruth stayed at the farm and worked at Willow Run, where the B24 Liberators were manufactured. In 1949, Ruth and Walt moved to Tucson where he was a radiologist at St. Mary's. They had four children, and later welcomed with elation the arrival of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ruth and Walt traveled extensively and adventurously, around the world as well as closer to home on the backroads of Mexico and the desert southwest. But Tucson was their home, and they loved their house and the desert surrounding it. They were dedicated stewards of the land, and could often be seen walking along the property, picking up litter and maintaining the pathway that ran across it. Ruth had a great appreciation for the arts and crafts of the local indigenous people. She collected many items, often directly from the maker. She was an avid and discerning reader, and loved to discuss the latest book she had read. Above all, Ruth loved her family. She was never happier than when she was holding a baby or two. She and Walt are survived by their four children, John, Stephen, Edward, and Karen; and by numerous cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Donald Staebler and her sister-in-law, Stellajoe Staebler. A Memorial Service for Ruth will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 10, 2016 at St. Mark's Presbyterian Church in Tucson. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to Mobile Meals or the charity of your choice . Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOME, Dodge Chapel.