Ruth Ann Altschaefl (nee Brugger) entered eternal life at her home with her loving husband at her side on Monday, November 18, 2013 at the age of 77 years.

Ruth was born on November 13, 1936 in West Bend to George and Olive (nee Schneider) Brugger. She married Joseph Altschaefl on September 10, 1955 at Holy Angels Catholic Church.

Ruth always enjoyed a good game of sheepshead, bridge, or canasta. She was also a talented knitter and would make scarves and afghans for all to enjoy. Ruth adored the holidays. It was important to her to make sure it was a special time for all her family and friends.

Whenever possible, Ruth tried to gather the family at their home on Pelican Lake in Rhinelander. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She adored her family and always put them before herself.

Ruth is survived by her husband of 58 years, Joseph; children Jo Ellen (Erik) Selsing with their children Justine, Brandon, and George; Mike (Mary) Altschaefl with their children Becky (Aaron) Miller, Kate (Michael) Drezner, Maggie, and Lizzie; Holly (Tim) Nennig with their children Bailey, Sadie, and Alex; and Ann (Jon) Dommisse with their children Lucas, Logan, and Morgan; and great-granddaughter Claire Miller. She is further survived by her sister Bernice Breuer, brother George "Bud" (Rosie) Brugger, and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends. Ruth is preceded in death by her parents and brother-in-law Walter "Wally" Breuer.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Ruth will be at 12:00 PM (noon) on Saturday, November 23, 2013 at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, 1025 S. 7th Ave. in West Bend. Visitation will be at the church from 10:00 AM until 11:45 AM on Saturday. Interment will follow at Washington County Memorial Park.

Memorials are appreciated to the Alzheimer's Association (620 S. 76th St. #160, Milwaukee, WI, 53214-1599).

The Phillip Funeral Home of West Bend is assisting the family
(262) 338-2050 / www.phillipfuneralhome.com.