ANN VAN RUITEN
Ann Van Ruiten entered into eternal rest on November 1, 2017, at the age of 91, in her home in Lodi surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ann was born on November 12, 1925 in Spaarnwoude, Holland. She was one of 13 children born to Adrian and Alida Dykzeul and was considered a second mother to her younger siblings. Along with her family, she immigrated to the United States after World War II in 1948, at the age of 22. Ann married John Van Ruiten, her childhood sweetheart, on August 2, 1950, and began her vocation of raising a large family in Lodi, which brought her much happiness and fulfillment.
John and Ann raised seven children in their home nestled in the vineyards that brought them joy and prosperity. She especially enjoyed spending time with her entire family, including her 16 beautiful grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren. She welcomed any visitor with open arms and made all feel like a part of the family. Her warm and loving spirit made family celebrations times not to be missed. Ann was fun-loving and had a zest for life. She and John enjoyed traveling and seeing the world.
Family and faith were the cornerstones of Ann’s life. She and John joined the St. Anne’s Catholic Church community in 1950 and supported both the church and school. While her children attended St. Anne’s School, Ann was involved in the Parent Club and School Board. She especially enjoyed her time doing pastoral care for the elderly and infirm. Her years spent in the Legion of Mary were equally gratifying. Ann’s time ministering to others and sharing her faith brought her as much joy as those she served. Her sweet smile and gentle ways left a lasting impression on all those who met her.
Ann is survived by her six children, Coby Zunino (John), Angie Rogan (Bill), Jim Van Ruiten (Susan), John Van Ruiten, Jr., Theresa Sherwood (Kevin), Jackie Baysinger, and grandchildren, Audrey Zunino Dietrich (Joseph), Annie Zunino, Billy Rogan, Mia Rogan Delgado (Chris), Jacob (Megan), Jessica, Janelle Van Ruiten, Julia, Meghan, John III, Conner Van Ruiten, Grace and Claire Sherwood, Madeline, Adriana, Nick Baysinger and four greatgrandchildren. Ann is preceded in death by her beloved husband, John, and daughter, Mary.
Public visitation will be at Lodi Funeral Home, 725 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi, on Thursday, November 9, 2017, from 2:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. A Catholic rosary will be recited at Lodi Funeral Home on Thursday evening at 7:00 P.M. A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, 215 W. Walnut St., Lodi, on Friday, November 10, 2017, at 9:00 A.M. Committal will be private.
Donations in Ann’s memory may be made to St. Anne’s Catholic Church, P.O. Box 480, Lodi, CA, 95241, in support of the “St. Anne Statue Fund”.
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