Ruth V. Kirchner, 97, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at River Hills Village in Keokuk.

She was born on January 7, 1928 in Keokuk, the daughter of Harry and Susan Younkin Wardlow. Ruth graduated from Montrose High School with the class of 1946. On January 25, 1947, Ruth married the love of her life, Elmer J. Kirchner. They shared thirty-eight years of marriage before his passing on January 12, 1985.

She was employed at Sheaffer Pen in Ft. Madison for thirty years before her retirement.

Ruth had a deep and unwavering love for her family and friends, and she poured that love into everything she did—from hand-stitching quilts for loved ones to doting on her beloved Yorkshire terrier, Buffy. She found joy in country and bluegrass music, reading romance books, and moments shared with those close to her. In recent years, she also found a love for the Kansas City Chiefs, proudly cheering them on during every game.

She is survived by her daughter, Teresa (Frank) Thoeny of Keokuk; sons Steve (Marge) Kirchner of Fort Madison and Richard (Madonna) Kirchner of Hamilton. Ruth also leaves behind a legacy of many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her tremendous pride and joy.

In addition to her husband and parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her brothers Paul, Leroy, and Albert Wardlow, and her sisters, Phoebe Tweedy and Priscilla Frieb.

Family received friends from 1-2 p.m. Sunday, August 3, 2025 at Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk. A celebration of life was held at 2 p.m. following the visitation at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Everhardt Cemetery in rural Donnellson.

Memorials in Ruth's honor may be made to Lee County Hospice or the PAW Animal Shelter in Fort Madison.