Kathryn Ruth

Kathryn Ann Ruth, 83, of Pleasant Hill, formerly of Independences, was born August 3, 1941, in Kansas City, Missouri, the daughter of Louis J. and Pauline R. (Bass) Montaleone. She departed this life Sunday, January 12, 2025, at the Pleasant Hill Health and Rehabilitation Center.

Kathryn was a 1959 Ruskin High School graduate.

On April 8, 1961, she was united in marriage to William D “Bill” Ruth, Sr. in Lee’s Summit and to this union three children, William, Jr., David, and Gretchen were born. Bill and Kathryn later divorced.

Kathryn was employed as an administrative assistant for several area companies including Allied Signal and the American Public Works Association in Kansas City. She had also worked in real estate and as a home health provider. She was a member of the Christ United Methodist Church in Independence. She enjoyed reading, dancing, and playing the accordion. She loved cats and always had several in her care as she fostered them until permanent homes could be found.

Kathryn is survived by her three children, William D. (and Patricia) Ruth, Jr., of Clarksville, Tennessee, David A. Ruth and Gretchen (and Danny) Ware both of Pleasant Hill; four grandchildren, Derek Ruth, Cody Ruth, Kylie Sullivan, and Cameron Ware; one brother, Frank (and Helga) Montaleone; other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her father Louis Montaleone and her mother and stepfather Pauline and J.V. Forrest.

Cremation has been accorded.

Visitation and a prayer service were held Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the funeral home. Father Curt Vogel officiated.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Pleasant Hill Animal Shelter and may be sent in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.StanleyEdenburn.com

Arrangements: Stanley-Edenburn Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong St., Pleasant Hill, Missouri 64080 (816) 540-5550