Ruth Charlotte Schillinger, age 91, of New Richmond, passed away peacefully on Sept. 25, 2025, at Hammond Health Care Center. She was born on Jan. 6, 1934, in Plum City, Wis., where she grew up in a large, loving family surrounded by siblings who cherished her deeply.
In 1952, Ruth married William F. Schillinger, and together they built a home in New Richmond. Throughout her life, Ruth dedicated herself to caring for others, working as a nurses’ aid at Westfields Hospital and an operator for the telephone company. Her gentle spirit and compassionate heart extended beyond her profession; she was often seen helping people with grocery shopping or offering rides as she ran her own taxi service, always lending a helping hand wherever needed.
Ruth found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including bird watching and caring for her beloved cats and all animals. Her cheerful disposition and generous nature touched the lives of many, including her dear friend, the late Alice Ramquist.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Gottfried and Alpha Sobottke; her husband, William Schillinger, Sr.; her daughters, Robin, Beth, and Lisa; her grandson, Anthony; and many cherished siblings. She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughters, Roxanne (John) Butler of Sequim, Wash., and Faith (Dale) Nelson of Stillwater, Minn.; her son, William F. Schillinger, Jr. of Glenwood City, Wis.; her sister, Barbara Sobottke; as well as numerous grandchildren—Sara, Crystal, Lisa, Seville, and Kayden—and great-grandchildren who will carry her memory in their hearts.
A memorial service to celebrate Ruth’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services, located at 728 S. Knowles Ave. in New Richmond. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service, allowing friends and family to gather and share cherished memories. A luncheon will follow the service, continuing the spirit of community and love that Ruth embodied. Ruth will be interred at Oakwood Cemetery in Hersey, Wis., where her spirit will rest among those she loved.
Ruth Charlotte Schillinger will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her kindness, warmth, and the profound impact she had on the lives of all who knew her.
