Mary Ruth Zook

Mary Ruth Zook, 81, passed on in the loving home of her son and daughter-in-law in Goshen, on Tuesday, July 14, 2009.  Mary was born on November 26, 1927, in Charlotte, Illinois, to the late Ben and Orpha (Erwin) Branz.  She married her husband of 63 years, John Wesley Zook on September 21, 1946 in Fisher, Illinois.  He survives along with daughters, Linda Zook of Estero, Florida, Brenda (Barbara Miller) Zook of Sarasota, Florida and Becci Velasco of Bowie, Maryland; two sons, John (Katie) Zook of Plano, Texas and Robert (Carolyn) Zook of Goshen; nine grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many extended family members who have been blessed by her love. In addition to managing a household of five children, Mary worked full time many years at Greencroft, The Window and Mennonite Mutual Aid.  She was a member of the Goshen General Hospital Auxiliary and the Elkhart Township Fire Department Auxiliary. Mary has always been appreciated for the way her smile could light up a room and for the kindness she has shown for others. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Wilma and Mabel; and two brothers, Henry and Paul. Friends may call 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 17, in the Koinonia Room at College Mennonite Church, Goshen. A 2:00 p.m. memorial service celebrating Mary’s life will be conducted on Sunday, July 19, 2009, at College Mennonite Church, Goshen.  Pastor Klaudia Smucker of College Mennonite Church and Pastor Steve Thomas of Walnut Hill Mennonite Church will officiate. A private family burial will be conducted in Violett Cemetery, Goshen. Memorial contributions may be made to Goshen Care at Home Hospice or to the Alzheimer’s Association.