In Loving Memory of Ruth Lee (Abbott) Vanderstelt

Ruth Lee (Abbott) Vanderstelt was a truly special woman whose love, kindness, and unforgettable sense of humor touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. She had a heart of gold and was the kind of person who would do anything for anybody. If you needed help, a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on, or simply someone to talk to, Ruth was always there. You could tell her anything, knowing she would listen without judgment and always have your back.

Ruth had a wonderful way of making people feel loved and supported, and her incredible sense of humor brought laughter into the lives of those around her. She knew how to find joy in the little things and had a gift for making people smile. Her warmth, quick wit, and ability to make others feel comfortable were just a few of the many things that made her so special. She was more than a loved one; she was a confidante, a source of comfort, and a friend who made life a little brighter simply by being in it.

One of the greatest loves of Ruth’s life was her husband, Clifford Vanderstelt. Their love was a treasured part of her story, filled with memories, laughter, and the kind of connection that never truly fades. Ruth would lovingly joke that Clifford used to be a frog until she kissed him, a sweet and humorous reminder of the love they shared and the personality that made Ruth so unforgettable. She carried her love for Clifford with her always, and as much as her family wishes they could have kept her here longer, there is comfort in knowing how ready she was to be reunited with him.

Ruth’s love for her family was at the center of her life. Her daughter, Christy Carpenter, held an especially precious place in her heart. After experiencing several miscarriages, Ruth cherished the blessing of becoming a mother, and the bond she shared with Christy was truly extraordinary. Their relationship was built on a deep, unwavering love and a devotion to one another that words can hardly describe. Ruth would have done absolutely anything for Christy, and Christy loved her mother with that same fierce and unconditional devotion. They were there for each other through life’s joys and hardships, sharing a connection that was as much a friendship as it was a mother-daughter bond.

Being a grandma was one of the most special roles in Ruth’s life. She adored her grandchildren, Lane and Storm Carpenter, and was the kind of grandma who was always there, ready to offer love, support, laughter, and a helping hand whenever she was needed. She was silly, fun-loving, and had a gift for making ordinary moments special. More than anything, she helped shape Lane and Storm into the people they are today, leaving a lasting mark on their hearts and lives. Her love extended to Lane’s wife, Emily, and their children, Clifford and Harlow Carpenter, whom Ruth cherished as her great-grandchildren. Little Clifford, named after Ruth’s beloved husband, carries a special piece of her family’s story in his name. The love Ruth poured into her family will live on through each of them, in the lessons she taught, the memories they treasure, and the love they will continue to share for generations to come.

Ruth also leaves behind her siblings, Roger and Stanley Abbott, along with many other family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory. She had a way of making the people in her life feel important and loved, and her generosity knew no bounds.

Ruth also shared a special bond with her beloved sister, Sue Franklin. Their closeness was another beautiful part of Ruth’s life, and the love they shared held a cherished place in her heart. There is comfort in imagining Ruth reunited with Clifford and Sue, embracing the loved ones she had missed so dearly.

Ruth was a woman of faith, and while her family and friends will miss her more than words can express, there is comfort in knowing she is finally home with the Lord and reunited with the love of her life, Clifford, and her beloved sister, Sue. Though saying goodbye is never easy, they can hold on to the hope that one day they will be together again.

Ruth leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured by words alone. It lives on in the kindness she showed, the people she helped, the laughter she brought, and the love she poured into her family and everyone fortunate enough to know her. She made people feel seen, heard, and cared for, and the world was a better place because she was in it.

Ruth will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. May the memories she leaves behind bring comfort through the tears and laughter through the sadness, just as she would have wanted.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 25, at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Ofield Funeral Home, 4500 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. A luncheon will follow the service. Family and friends are welcome to gather to honor Ruth’s life, share memories, and celebrate the love and joy she brought to so many.