Ruth Caroline Beier

Ruth Graesch Beier, 93, of Harpers Ferry, IA, formerly of Winthrop, IA, passed quietly into the arms of the angels at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon, IA, on Monday, July 19, 2010. Graveside services will be held Friday, July 23rd, at 11:00 AM at Fremont Cemetery, rural Winthrop.

Ruth Caroline Graesch Beier was born on March 22, 1917 in Dundee, IA, to Adolph and Sarah (Kohltenbach) Becker. She married Earl Graesch in 1937; they proudly farmed in rural Aurora, IA. Earl preceded her in death in 1984. Ruth later moved to Winthrop and married Fred Beier in 1987. They enjoyed many years together wintering in Mission, TX. Fred preceded her in death in 1997.

Throughout her life Ruth enjoyed cooking and has given her family many wonderful recipes. Ruth also worked in her flower garden, cared for the lawn, read and went to garage sales. Most of all she enjoyed the times she spent with her family.

Ruth leaves to mourn her passing one daughter, Sheryl Smith and her significant other, Neale Downing, of Harpers Ferry; three grandsons, Bret Smith of Virginia Beach, VA, and Kurt Smith and Nile (Kay) Smith, both of Harpers Ferry; five great-grandchildren, Cameron, Beau, Orion, Sarah and Brent; two great-great-grandchildren, Anthony and Skyler; one brother, Gerald (Ruthie) Becker; nieces and nephews; and four stepchildren and their families. She is preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; eight brothers and sisters; a son-in-law, Dean Smith; and a granddaughter-in-law, Edie Smith.