WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Ruth Evita Bontrager, age 74, of Grass Lake, Michigan and a former longtime resident of St. Joseph County, passed away on March 24, 2023 in Grass Lake.
She was born March 19, 1949 in Petoskey, daughter of the late Harold and Elaine (Lance) Tobias.
Ruth resided most of her life in the Centreville, Sturgis and Colon area, moving to Grass Lake in 2000.
On November 27, 1965 she married James “Jim” Bontrager, Sr. at the Sturgis Wesleyan Church in Sturgis.
Ruth had been employed by Centreville Public Schools as a bus driver for 16 years.
She enjoyed sewing, crocheting and gardening.
Ruth is survived by her husband of 57 years: Jim; children: James “Jim” (Marie) Bontrager, Jr. of Greer, SC; Traci (Matt) Grover of Columbus, OH; and Brandon Bontrager of Grand Rapids; grandchildren: Danielle, Tyler, Nathan, Madison, Natalie and Matthew; seven great grandchildren; sister: Denise Tobias of White Pigeon; brother: Charles “Chuck” Tobias of Sun City, CA and nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and infant son: Curtis Bontrager.
In accordance with her wishes cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M., Saturday, April 29th at the Radiant Life Church, 907 N. Nottawa St. in Sturgis. Immediately following the visitation a memorial service celebrating the life of Ruth Bontrager will begin at 11:00 A.M. Pastor Brandon Kinsey will officiate.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is assisting the family with local arrangements.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mrs. Bontrager’s memory consider the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 15829, Arlington, VA 22215 or a charity of their choice.
We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
