Ruth Anne Oartel, M.D
SALISBURY - Ruth Anne Oartel, M.D., a respected pediatrician and advocate for children, passed away on January 4, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 26, 1929, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to John Sheldon and Mabel Stratton Oartel, Ruth's journey was one marked by dedication, compassion, and resilience.
Ruth graduated from Wilkinsburg High School in 1947 and pursued higher education with fervor and determination. She earned a scholarship to begin her undergraduate studies at the University of Pittsburgh, then transferred to the University of Maryland, where she graduated in 1951. Notably, she completed medical school and her residency at George Washington University in Washington D.C., standing out as the only female in her class of 1954.
Her medical career spanned almost 50 years, during which she served as a beloved pediatrician in Claymont, Delaware. Ruth's commitment to children's welfare extended beyond her medical practice. She was a devoted Court Appointed Special Advocate for children in Delaware, ensuring the voices of the most vulnerable were heard.
A faithful member of St. Peter's Church in Salisbury, Maryland, Ruth was actively involved in the Altar Guild and worked countless hours behind the scenes volunteering where needed. Her skill at needlepoint carried over to the creation of beautiful kneelers for the parishioners to enjoy. For years Ruth served as the president of Schumaker Manor Homeowners Association. Her contributions to her community were both profound and enduring.
Known affectionately as Hanny or Aunt Hanny, she was the person her family always looked to for medical questions and advice. One of her most endearing qualities was her love for family and friends and keeping up with them all. She became a fan of Parkside's cross-country team and followed her great-nephew, Patrick, as he competed with them up and down the shore.
Later in life, Ruth faced the challenge of losing her eyesight but met this with her characteristic grace and adaptability. She became involved with Blind Industries of Maryland, turning a personal challenge into another avenue for service and advocacy.
Ruth is mourned by her sister, Margaret Palmer, nephews Peter (Dee) Palmer and Mark Palmer, niece Deborah (Michael) Wessels and God daughter Debbie Robinson. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother John Sheldon "Buzz" Oartel, nephew Christopher Palmer, great nephews Andy Palmer and Mac Wessels.
A memorial service celebrating Ruth's life will be held at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Salisbury, Maryland on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at 2:00 pm, with visitation a half hour prior to the service. There will be a reception immediately following in the Church Parlor. A private interment is planned for the future.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Ruth's honor to St. Peter's Episcopal Church Altar Guild or Blind Industries of Maryland. In a final act of service, Ruth has chosen to donate her body to the state of Maryland Anatomy Board for Research. Ruth's legacy as a healer, advocate, and beloved family member will continue to inspire and touch lives for generations to come.