Ruthann (Shade) Metternick, age 84, of Alto, Michigan, was called home to be with the Lord on February 12, 2026. Harold was holding her hand when she took her last breath. Ruthann was born on November 16, 1941, in a farmhouse in Lowell Township. She spent her entire life in the community she loved, living all 84 years in Lowell Township across three different farms. She lived on the last farm for just under 64 years. Ruthann and Harold both grew up on Bancroft Ave., just two miles apart from each other. She attended Merriman School, a one-room schoolhouse, and later graduated from Lowell High School in 1959 with Harold. Ruthann and Harold have known each other for a total of 75 years.
Ruthann found joy in the gifts God gave her – time with family, gathering for special moments, attending International Harvester tractor shows, and especially cherishing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed her flowerbeds, cats, and her puzzles.
She was preceded in death by her infant son, John Matthew; her parents, Marion and Opal Shade; sister, Wanda; and her brother, Dale.
Ruthann will be deeply missed by her husband, Harold Jr., of 64 years. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Terry (Cheryl) Metternick, Nancy Metternick, and Tim (Kathy) Metternick. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; her sister, Yvonne Gould; and her sister-in-law, Rose Marie (Bill) Bruinsma. Her legacy of faith, strength, and unconditional love will live on through them. The family finds comfort knowing Ruthann is now at peace, restored and whole, held in the arms of her Savior.
Relatives and friends may meet the family on Thursday, February 19, 2026 from 6-8 pm or from 10-11 am on Friday at Bowne Center United Methodist Church, 12051 84th Street SE in Alto. A service to celebrate Ruthann’s life will be held at the church on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 11am with Pastor Jim Pollard officiating. She will be laid to rest at Merriman Cemetery.
Memorial Contributions can be directed to Flat River Outreach Ministries, 11535 Fulton St. E, Lowell, MI 49331.
3 Responses
Sorry to hear of Ruthann passing enjoyed her and Harold for many years at IH events she was a large help to Michigan Chapter 11 .
Rest in peace. bill&Linda Hinga. climax Mi.
Sorry to hear of Ruthann passing enjoyed her and Harold for many years at IH events she was a large help to Michigan Chapter 11 .
Rest in peace. bill&Linda Hinga. climax Mi.
I’m sorry to hear about Ruth Ann’s passing. The memories of our young years from a one room schoolhouse to years between then and now are racing through my mind. To her family I know how important you were to her. Peace be with you.