Ruth (Miller) Pankratz, 82, of Hartville, peacefully slipped away into the presence of the Lord on Friday morning, October 28th surrounded by her family.

Mom had a spunky, sassy personality we always said came with her red hair. But even after her hair turned white, the sass remained to the end. Raised in Uniontown, when she was 21 she traveled to California for voluntary service. While in California she met and married the father of her daughters. After the death of their oldest daughter in 1970 they moved back to Hartville the following year.

Mom enjoyed playing Yahtzee and Scrabble with her family as well as reading and jigsaw puzzles. A good cup of coffee, especially with family, was something she treasured. And if her spirits were low, a "Biscuit Therapy" session with her sister was in order. Mom enjoyed cooking and baking for her family. Her grandchildren were a source of great joy in her life. With all five of them being members of the Lake Blue Streak Band at some point, she enjoyed going to football games and concerts to see them perform. She thoroughly enjoyed being outside in the sunshine as well. It was a bonus during the summer that she could hear the band practicing in the morning as she sat outside.

Daughter of the late Jacob L. and Fannie J. (Sommers) Miller, Ruth was preceded in death by daughter Kristi, five sisters, and two brothers. She is survived by daughters Kelli (Dennis) Miller of Uniontown, and Marcia (Bob) Pohelia of New Franklin; grandchildren Britni Bates of Findlay, Dallas Miller of Columbus, Noel Bates (fiancé Ryan Sparks) of Cuyahoga Falls, Josh (Gina) Miller of Columbus, and Shelby Miller of Uniontown; five brothers, and one sister.

We would like to thank all the doctors, nurses, and staff at Aultman Hospital and Altercare of Louisville involved in mom's care these last months. Our deepest gratitude to the nurses and doctors of the third floor ICU at Aultman and the Compassionate Care Center at Aultman Woodlawn for making mom's last hours peaceful and comfortable.

In keeping with her wishes, a private family service will be held. After losing Kristi at age 5 from brain cancer, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital was an organization mom donated to frequently. As a tribute to mom, we suggest donations be made to St. Jude in her honor.