Ruth Vayhinger Obituary

Ruth Catherine Imler Vayhinger, 91, passed away on Wednesday, March 18th, 2009. She was surrounded by her devoted family and friends in her last days. Ruth was born July 30, 1917 to Marie (Bradford) and Earl Imler in Arcadia, Indiana. She grew up the oldest of 7 siblings in a Methodist parish. She grew accustomed to responsibility, caring and flexibility at an early age and continued these wonderful traits throughout her life. She attended Taylor University in Upland, Indiana where she met and married the love of her life, John Monroe Vayhinger. Ruth supported and was a true partner in John’s ministry as Methodist minister, counselor and teacher and did everything with love and expertise. She was a vital part of the First United Methodist Odds and Ends Sunday School class and the United Methodist Women’s circle at First Methodist Church. Ruth was a totally accepting and loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother to her children, son Jack Vayhinger (and Carol Kozma), and daughter Karen (and John Childs). Her 10 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren found her to always be ready with a warm heart, many hugs, smiles and acceptance. She loved to do cross-stitching and knitting especially for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The memory of her enduring faith, her faithful Christian service and her commitment to family will be cherished for years to come. She will be missed greatly. Visitation will be at Swan Law Funeral Directors on Sunday, March 22nd, 1:00 - 4:00 pm. The funeral service will be Monday, March 23rd, at 1:00 pm at First United Methodist Church, 420 N. Nevada Ave., with reception immediately after. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to First United Methodist Church, 420 N. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO, 80903; Vayhinger Scholarship Fund, Taylor University, 236 W. Read Ave., Upland, IN 46989; or to the John and Ruth Vayhinger Trust, Anderson School of Theology, 1100 E. 5th St., Anderson, IN, 46012.