Aunt Ruth

Ruth Martha Josephine (Kuhlman) VanWinkle, fondly known as Aunt Ruth, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2024, just two days shy of her 103rd birthday. Born in Nichols, NY, on July 11, 1921, to parents Karl and Dorathea (Timm) Kuhlman, Ruth lived a life marked by love, kindness, and generosity.

Aunt Ruth was the matriarch of our family, a beacon of warmth and care in the lives of those who knew her. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Clarence “Rip” VanWinkle, her parents, and all her siblings: Walter Kuhlman, Helmuth & Esther (Kuhlman) Krause, Otto & Gladys (Fraser) Kuhlman, Karl Kuhlman, Ernest & Patricia (Best) Kuhlman, Earl & Dorothea (Kuhlman) Hunsinger, Martha Kuhlman, and Martin Kuhlman.

Her memory will be cherished and kept alive by her sisters-in-law, Lottie Kuhlman and Brenda Kuhlman, along with her many adoring nieces and nephews, for whom she held a special place in her heart.

She was known for her commitment to family and her love for the simple pleasures of country life. Ruth, alongside her husband Clarence and brother Mart, became the co-owner of VanWinkle's Farm Stand, where she spent countless hours ensuring that their produce was as bountiful as her spirit. She was an avid hunter, a skill she learned and cherished throughout her life. She also had a passion for farming and the outdoors, often accompanied by her faithful coon dog Towser. Ruth's home was a gathering place for family, where memories of overnight stays, laughter, and love still linger in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to experience her hospitality.

Ruth was a devoted member of the Zion Lutheran Church and a strong supporter of the school. To her family, Ruth was more than an aunt; she was a second mother, a confidante, and a friend. Ruth's loving nature extended beyond her immediate family, as she was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.

"The legacy Aunt Ruth leaves behind can be described by Galatians 5:22 "..the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law" Ruth embodied this sentiment, touching the hearts of all who knew her with her boundless love and kindness.

As we bid farewell to our Aunt Ruth, we take solace in knowing that her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. We will gather on Monday, August 5th at the Zion Lutheran Church in Owego for a period of visitation from 11 – 12 pm. A funeral service will follow at 12 pm followed by a luncheon. Ruth will be laid to rest in the Riverside Cemetery, Lounsberry. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting her guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com

In lieu of flowers, contributions for Sadie Kuhlman, c/o Paul Kuhlman (cks to be made payable to Paul Kuhlman) and mailed to: Community Bank, 41 E. River Rd., Nichols, NY 13812. Sadie is a very special little girl who struggles with epilepsy. Aunt Ruth would be first to help care for Sadie as she did for many of her family members.