Ruth Witherell

Ruth Witherell, 94, of Punta Gorda passed away October 26, 2006. She was born June 22, 1912 in Plainwell, MI to Benjamin and Maude (Welch) Root. Ruth and her husband Bernard began coming to Salt Spring, Florida (known today as Warm Mineral Springs) in the winter of 1939. They bought their home in Punta Gorda in 1945 and have been yearly visitors until 1971 when they became permanent residents as did most of their children/families. She was very active in her local church and served in many capacities such as teaching and as deaconess. Ruth was very devoted to her family and talented in many hobbies such as shell jewelry, pine needle weaving and making Raggedy Ann’s. As a result was very involved in teaching at the Craft Clubs at Gilcrist Park in Punta Gorda and Matlacha on Pine Island. She will be especially missed by her youngest son Roger with whom she battled the winds of Charlie in 2004. Ruth will be greatly missed by her sons Donald (Pat) Witherell, Bruce (Luann) Witherell and Roger Witherell all of Punta Gorda; 10 grandchildren and 3 step-grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren and 11 step-great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her daughter Carolyn and her husband Bernard. The family will receive friends 6:00 - 8:00 pm, Monday October 30 at Larry Taylor Funeral and Cremation Services. A celebration of Ruth’s life will be 10:30 am, Tuesday, October 31 at Larry Taylor Funeral and Cremation Services with burial at Charlotte Memorial Gardens to follow after service. To express condolences to the family, please sign the online guest book.