Ruth Schnepp- In Memoriam

+ Ruth Schnepp +  May 21, 1941 - December 17, 2014  Ruth Marie Schnepp, aka Ruthie, was born on May 21, 1941 to Herman and Ruth Kruelle and was reborn through the waters of Holy Baptism on June 22 in Bethlehem Lutheran Church. She made confession and confirmed her faith on Palm Sunday, 1955. On Oct. 9, 1960 she married Carroll Pfaff. They had two children, Karen and David, who in turn, with their spouses Gary and Lori, gave "MeMe" five grandchildren Charity, Benjamin, Amy, Ashley, and Lauren. On May 25, 1983 Ruth married Rev. Kenneth Schnepp and added his two daughters Mary and Katie to the family. As time went along Mary's husband Jason and then their son Benjamin joined the family. A gift of Ruth's was her servant heart. She served on various Altar Guilds, participated in LWML, and worked on numerous church committees as well as church council. Although Ruth didn't necessarily see herself as a leader, often her willingness to serve developed into leadership positions. As a teenager she served as the Secretary of the Eastern District Walter League. She was the adult advisor and leader for Bethlehem's Walther League when her children were teens. She was VBS director and coordinator and organized many a church dinner over the years at the churches to which she belonged. She also organized the successful Spring and Fall Festivals at Oxon Hill Lutheran Church. Her servant heart was utilized in her employment at Wockenfuss Candy Store for 10 years and then at Manor Care for 15 years until her retirement. Although she started at Manor Care as a server, she was promoted to assistant activities director, which made use of more of Ruth's God-given gifts, hospitality and a cheerful, joy-filled heart.  It seems poignant that her final days occurred during Advent, a time in the church year for preparation and eager anticipation of the King/Bridegroom's coming. By faith Ruth looked expectantly for Jesus to come and take her to be with Him in Heaven. Ruth leaves a lasting legacy for her loved ones of love, faith and laughter. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 4815 Hamilton Ave., Baltimore, MD 21206, 410-488-4445 or Oxon Hill Lutheran Church, 3415 Brinkley Rd., Temple Hills, MD 20748, 301-894-3773 on the Memo line designate: Ruth Schnepp. Ruth was a sister-in Christ that was a gift among her friends and family, we will remember her laughter as we tell the stories of God's faithfulness in her life that continue to bless our days. Ruth is the mother of Karen Olson, married to Rev. Gary Olson of Richmond, Virginia. The photo is of Ruth on her 70th birthday.