Ruth M. (Vander Zwaag) Schmitt

Ruth M. Schmitt, 100 years old of Grand Haven, passed away at Robbinswood Assisted Living on Friday, October 13, 2023. She was born on May 22, 1923 in Grand Haven, MI to the late Joseph and Henrietta (Ruiter) Vander Zwaag. Ruth married Lawrence “Larry” Schmitt on January 7, 1944 in Coldwater, MI. He preceded her in death on April 27, 2014 after 70 years of marriage.

Ruth graduated from Grand Haven High School and went on to attend Muskegon School of Business. In her younger years, she worked for Reichardt’s in Grand Haven, then in the Accounts Receivable department at the Muskegon Paper Mill, Steketee’s and the Big Store in Grand Haven, and Rospatch in Grand Rapids.

Ruth was a member of First Reformed Church for many years. She was an avid bowler and golfer who loved to go to the casino, and loved attending sporting events with her children and grandchildren.

Ruth is lovingly remembered and missed by her sons, Larry P. (Susan) Schmitt of South Haven and Stewart (Sandy) Schmitt of Spring Lake; her daughter-in-law, Shirley Schmitt; son-in-law, Ryan Laug; nine grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; son, Joel Schmitt in 2016; her daughter, Kristin Laug in 2009; and her sister, Lois VanDyke.

A private family service for Ruth will take place. Interment will be at Lake Forest Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Hospice of North Ottawa Community or the American Alzheimer’s Association of Michigan.

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