Ruth Widermuth worked at Lima Locomotive Works; retired from Triplett
Ruth Elizabeth Wildermuth, 91, died Jan. 23, 2017, at Richland Manor Nursing Home, Bluffton. Ruth was born Aug. 22, 1925, in Allen County, Ohio, to the late Emmer and Florence (Cool) Bridges. On Oct. 28, 1945, she married Norbert Wildermuth who preceded her in death on March 16, 1996.
She was a 1943 graduate of Lafayette-Jackson High School. Ruth had worked at the City Loan and Lima Locomotive Works both in Lima. She later retired from Triplett Corporation in Bluffton.
After retirement she enjoyed doing housework and chores for the elderly. Ruth was a former member of Pleasant View Church of the Brethren, Lima where she taught Bible School and children's Sunday school. She later joined the Bluffton Presbyterian Church.
Survivors include two sisters, Jane (Herbert) Grismore of Bluffton, Mary (Harold) Weaver of Lima; and several nieces and nephews.
Ruth was preceded in death by her son, Dale Wildermuth; a brother, Willis Bridges; and three sisters, Leah Bridges, Marie Bishop, and Ida Miller.
Services will be held Thursday, Jan. 26, at 11 a.m. at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services, Bluffton. Pastor David Good officiating Burial will be in Lewis Grove Cemetery, near Lima. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Bluffton Presbyterian Church.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.
Stories Posted This Week
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
- Obituary for centenarian Lois Jean Andreas
- Thomas "Tom" J. Basinger served in the U.S. Army
- President Sider to present Aug. 25 State of the University address
- August 10 council recap: Spending increase for Benroth bridge repairs
- MHCO requests zoning change for construction of senior duplexes
- WIP Wednesday: 1915 kitchen gets a charming DIY remodel
Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Monday, August 10, 2026
- Pirate girls tennis 2nd at Lima City tourney
- Professor Parquet on the passing of Don Nelson
- Bluffton historical society to discuss upcoming events, fundraising
- Bluffton Public Library hosts Mobile Health Clinic on Aug. 13
- 2026 PorchFest preview: Tommy Jenkins, Cat Dailey, Szabo Trio
- Chair massages offered at the Senior Center
- Bluffton Senior Center to host Spa Day