Ruth Schnepp - Obituary

uth Marie Schnepp, aka Ruthie, was born on May 21, 1941 to Herman and Ruth Kruelle and was reborn through the waters of Holy Baptism on June 22 in Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Her brother, Herman Jr. was born the following year on July 4th. She made confession and confirmed her faith on Palm Sunday, 1955. On Oct. 9, 1960 she married Carroll Pfaff. They had two children, Karen and David, who in turn, with their spouses Gary and Lori, gave “MeMe” five grandchildren Charity, Benjamin, Amy, Ashley, and Lauren. On May 25, 1983 Ruth married Rev. Kenneth Schnepp and added his two daughters Mary and Katie to the family. As time went along Mary’s husband Jason and then their son Benjamin joined the family. Following in her parents’ example, Ruth’s life always revolved around church, using her God-given gifts for His glory. She loved to sing His praises beginning as a child in Bethlehem’s Chancel Choir and later in the Senior Choirs where she worshipped as well as Baltimore’s Phoenix Choir. She began using her gift of teaching early in life becoming a Sunday School teacher at age 14, a position she filled through her life. She led many children’s sermons and taught VBS. She also was a substitute teacher at her children’s elementary school and taught 1st grade for one full year as a long-term sub. Another gift of Ruth’s was her servant heart. She served on various Altar Guilds, participated in LWML, and worked on numerous church committees as well as church council. Although Ruth didn’t necessarily see herself as a leader, often her willingness to serve developed into leadership positions. As a teenager she served as the Secretary of the Eastern District Walter League. She was the adult advisor and leader for Bethlehem’s Walther League when her children were teens. She was VBS director and coordinator and organized many a church dinner over the years at the churches to which she belonged. She also organized the successful Spring and Fall Festivals at Oxon Hill Lutheran Church. Her servant heart was utilized in her employment at Wockenfuss Candy Store for 10 years and then at Manor Care for 15 years until her retirement. Although she started at Manor Care as a server, she was promoted to assistant activities director, which made use of more of Ruth’s God-given gifts, hospitality and a cheerful, joy-filled heart. Anyone who knew Ruth, knew she loved to laugh and have a good time. She was considered the life of the party. Ruth never aged, she was always young at heart. Her joy in living was evident to all. Whether facing MS or cancer, her optimism and good-nature shone through. It seems poignant that her final days occurred during Advent, a time in the church year for preparation and eager anticipation of the King/Bridegroom’s coming. By faith Ruth looked expectantly for Jesus to come and take her to be with Him in Heaven. Ruth leaves a lasting legacy for her loved ones of love, faith and laughter. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Relatives and friends are invited to Ruth's Life Celebration at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 4815 Hamilton Ave., Baltimore, MD this Saturday, December 20th from 4pm-8pm. There will be a second viewing Life Celebration at the George P. Kalas Funeral Home, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. on January 2nd, 2015 from 2 to 4 pm & 6 to 8pm and again on Saturday, January 3, 2015 at Oxon Hill Lutheran Church, 3415 Brinkley Rd., Temple Hills, MD from 10am until A Celebration Service of Victory and New Life for Ruth at 11am. A luncheon to follow in the Fellowship Hall. Interment at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 4815 Hamilton Ave., Baltimore, MD 21206, 410-488-4445 or Oxon Hill Lutheran Church, 3415 Brinkley Rd., Temple Hills, MD 20748, 301-894-3773 on the Memo line designate: Ruth Schnepp.