Ruth Sussenbach Rupert

Ruth Sussenbach Rupert, of Jackson, Michigan, formerly of Spring Arbor, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2024, at the age of 86. Ruth is survived by her daughter Sharon (David) Fryman of Indianapolis, her son John D. (Annie) Rupert of Montague, Michigan, her sister Edie (Richard) Harris of Edwardsville, Illinois, her brother Ward Sussenbach of Greenville, Illinois, her grandchildren Benjamin (Kelly) Rupert of Montague, Michigan, Emma (Brady) Hill of Wabash, Indiana, and Joseph (Annaleisa) Rupert of Midland, Michigan, and her great-grandchildren Henry, Charlotte, and Elijah.

She was preceded in death by her husband, J. David Rupert, her son Steven Mark Rupert, her parents Virgil G. and Edna W. Sussenbach, and her brothers Thomas and Robert Sussenbach.

Ruth was born on April 17, 1938, in Highland, Illinois. She graduated from high school in Greenville, Illinois, and later from Greenville University. From a young age, Ruth had a deep love for music, playing both the organ and piano, a passion that followed her throughout her life and became a significant part of her ministry. On June 18, 1960, she married J. David Rupert. Together, they dedicated 32 years to ministry, serving in various churches across several states. Ruth faithfully supported her husband in his pastoral work and continued her dedicated service to God and her community even after his passing.

Throughout her life, Ruth held several positions, including public and private school teacher, secretary to the Southern Michigan Conference superintendent, assistant at Spring Arbor University Learning Center, and administrative assistant at the Free Methodist Foundation for 14 years. Ruth also served as organist for 28 years at Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church (Arbor Church) in Michigan. Ruth deep faith in God was evident in every aspect of her life. She found joy in gardening, cherished time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and loved documenting her travels through scrapbooking. Her passion for missions led her to take a meaningful trip to Africa. Ruth’s impact was profound and enduring.

In keeping with her lifelong dedication to serving others, Ruth humbly requested that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Central Africa Healthcare Organization, a cause close to her heart. If interested, donation pages can be found at www.gocaho.org. Please note “Rupert Charitable Gift Fund” in the gift memo.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Elara Caring, Allegiance Oncology, and Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home for their compassionate care.

A celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, June 1, at The Arbor Church, 120 East Main Street, Spring Arbor, Michigan. Visitation with the family will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Friday, May 31 at Watson Funeral Chapel, 2590 Spring Arbor Road, Jackson. Burial will follow the funeral service at Spring Arbor Cemetery.

While we mourn her passing, we also rejoice in the knowledge that she is now at peace in the arms of her Savior. Ruth’s legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire us all, and she will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

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