Ruth Messler, 91, passed away peacefully July 19, surrounded by her children.
Ruth Marie Hinkefent was born Nov. 10, 1925, in Kansas City to Emil and Ruth Hinkefent. She graduated from Marquette High School and married her high school sweetheart, Jack Ziegler, in 1944. She enjoyed a long and happy marriage with Jack, with whom she had six children. After his death, she found love a second time, marrying Tom Messler. Together for more than 20 years, they enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including sailing at Windycrest Sailing Club, traveling the country in their RV, competing in rifle matches, and taking cruises to such destinations as Alaska, Hawaii, and even the Mayan ruins. At home, they enjoyed looming, cross stitching, and their multiple pets, including dogs, birds, and fish (lucky Tom was a retired veterinarian!) Ruth worked as a manager for Akin's Natural Foods, attending the Church of the Madalene, and served as a member and officer of the Osage Territory Muzzle Loading Rifle Association. She won women's championship muzzle loading matches in Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri as well as several single-shot rifle matches, often beating her male competitors.
Ruth was an avid gardener, turning an ordinary backyard into a beautiful paradise. She was also known for her heart-shaped German chocolate cake and the most amazing chocolate chip cookies, which were best enjoyed over a cup of tea and conversation at her kitchen table.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers (Jim, Tom and Raymond Hinkefent), and her son Emil Ziegler. She is survived by her children Julie McKinney, Mimi McDonald (Jack), Martha Welker (Jerry), James Ziegler (Marjorie), and John Ziegler (Kim). She also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and many friends.
All touched by her love, we will miss this amazing mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend and woman.
Memorial Service: Sunday at 4:00 p.m., Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 3612 E. 91st St. S., Tulsa, OK, 918-291-3500.