of Jackson, MI, formerly of Chelsea, MI, age 78, died Tuesday, August 27, 2019 at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson. She was born January 5, 1941 in Chelsea, MI, the daughter of Wayne Francis & Mary Agnes (Stapish) Rossbach. Ruth attended Cushing Elementary (a one-room school), Dexter High School, and then graduated from St. Thomas High School in 1959. She worked at the University of Michigan School of Public Health as a secretary. Ruth and Bob moved to Chelsea in 1981. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church. Ruth sang in the choir from 1982 until 2017. She had a great love for music. Ruth enjoyed drawing and was a great artist. She made paper dolls and clothing for them.

On May 15, 1971, Ruth married Robert J. Calkins in Saline, and he preceded her in death on Nov. 23, 2018. Survivors include one sister, Rosemary (Joseph) Moody of Jackson, and several nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother, David Rossbach.

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, Aug. 30, 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating.  Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.  The family will receive friends Thursday, 5-8 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel, with a Vigil Service at 7:30 pm.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.