Ruth Claire Ritchie age 88, passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2014 at Spectrum Health Butterworth Campus in Grand Rapids. She was born in Jackson, MI on January 16, 1926 to William and Margaret (Desnoyer) Hickman. Ruth was preceded in death by her husband Walter and her son Dorian, both of Big Rapids; and a sister Margaret McCully of FL. Ruth is survived by her sister Jane Kucera of Delray Beach, FL; and several cousins, nieces and nephews. Ruth attended schools in Jackson and graduated from Michigan State University with Bachelors and Masters Degrees. She taught in public schools in Leslie and Big Rapids. Ruth was active in Hospice, Friends of the Library and the American Red Cross all in Big Rapids. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hospice of Michigan (400 Perry St.) or Friends of the Library (426 S. Michigan Ave.) both of Big Rapids. Cremation has taken place and private services are being planned for a later date.