Ruth Windheuser-Beebe Obituary

Ruth Ann "Ruthie" Windheuser-Beebe of Lawrence, KS passed away April 8, 2017 at her home in Lawrence surrounded by family and with her beloved cat, My Girl, at her side. She was 62. Ruthie was born July 26, 1954 in Elizabeth, New Jersey, the second daughter of Teresa and John J Windheuser of Kenilworth, New Jersey. Ruthie moved with her family in the mid 1960's to Madison, Wisconsin where she graduated from James Madison Memorial High School and grew to adulthood. She moved to Lawrence, KS in 1976 to be near her mother Teresa. Ruthie was a devoted daughter and became her mother's main companion and constant caregiver in her mother's later years, eventually moving into the duplex owned and occupied by her mother to make care giving easier. Ruthie did not have an easy path through life. She always worked to provide for herself and her son Sam Beebe, born in 1984. To those she worked with she was known as "Chef Ruthie" because she worked as a cook for several KU fraternities/sororities as well as for Presbyterian Manor and Brandon Woods. Ruth loved to read and watch mysteries, do daily crossword puzzles from the newspaper, and cook with her mother. She had a flair for decorating and surrounded herself with artwork and knick-knacks that gave her joy. Although she never had much money, Ruth was a generous and giving person. She understood being in need and helped others in need with gifts of food, clothes or even tires for their car. She enjoyed shopping for funny gifts for her nieces and nephews and was blessed with many friends from her various workplaces who will miss her no nonsense style and attention to detail.

Ruth is survived by her son Sam, Lawrence, her older sister Christine Windheuser, Washington, DC, her younger brothers John E Windheuser, Des Moines, IA and Michael Windheuser, Lawrence; her nieces Lydia White, Laura Nordgren, Kate Rodriguez-Windheuser, and Beth Windheuser, nephews Matthew Windheuser, Andrew Windheuser, and John B Windheuser. She was preceded in death by her parents Teresa and John J Windheuser, Lawrence.

A celebration of Ruth's life will be held on a future date. The family suggests memorials to the Lawrence Humane Society or the ASPCA. Online condolences can be posted at Rumsy-Yost.com.