Ruth Crews

Ruth Lena (Grother) Crews of Kansas City, MO passed away peacefully at the St. Luke’s Hospice House on November 7, 2017 at the age of 94.   Ruth was born in Paola, KS on February 9, 1923 to Ernie and Ida (Oberheide) Grother.  She and her only sibling, Helen, spent many happy hours helping their parents on the family farm outside Paola.   While growing up, she attended the Block Lutheran Church of Paola.

After graduation from Paola High School in 1941, Ruth moved to Kansas City.  She married the love of her life, Frank E. Crews, in 1946 upon his return from service in WWII and they shared almost 40 years together before his death in 1985.  Ruth worked for many years at the law firm of Watson Ess, Marshall and Enggas, until her 1990 retirement.

Ruth had an engaging personality and energetically followed and discussed local and national politics.  She faithfully watched her beloved Chiefs and Royals and enjoyed discussing the games with her sister.  Ruth and Frank spent many summer days at their Lake of the Ozarks vacation home, and after his death, Ruth learned to drive so she could drive Old Blue, her cherished 1981 Ford Fairmont.  In retirement, she enjoyed attending activities with her Jolly 60s church friends.

Ruth lived a long, rich life and will be missed by her family and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, along with an infant daughter.  She is survived by her loving sister, Helen J. Robb of Raytown, her nephew and his wife, Chuck and Laura Robb of Lee’s Summit, and her great nephew and niece, Patrick Robb, New York City, and Marissa Robb, Kansas City.  Many heartfelt thanks to her neighbors, Ed & Mary Webb and their three daughters and Kelly Smith, who spent many hours helping and watching out for Ruth, allowing her to stay in her home until the last few weeks of her life.

Private family burial.  No flowers please.  Memorial contributions can be made to the VFW Foundation at 406 W. 34th Street, Kansas City, MO 64111 or online at heroes.vfw.org.