Esther Ruby

Esther Ruby, nee Chapman, age 87, of Mauston, went home to be with her Lord on Friday, August 21, 2026. 

She was born at home on a farm in Grant Township, Clare County, MI on May 3, 1939, to Grant and Florence (Smith) Chapman. She graduated from Coleman High School in 1957. Esther married the love of her life, Charles “Chuck” Ruby on May 2, 1959, in Clare, MI.

Esther was an active church member wherever they lived. She enjoyed being a Sunday School Teacher and leading Junior Church with Chuck. She was currently a member of Walnut Hill Bible Church.

Esther was very creative.  She enjoyed sewing and other needle crafts, decorating, upholstery, and knitting.  Esther was young at heart and her story telling was great entertainment for many children throughout her life.   

Esther and Chuck also spent many hours caring for and being entertained by their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They also enjoyed being outdoors camping, golfing or just walking. And, no garage sale was passed if she had a moment and a quarter to barter. 

Esther is survived by her children, Kathy (Mark) Brandel, J Scott (Sarah), and Melanie (Christopher) Sommerfield; grandchildren, Jeffrey Ruby, Anita Nielsen, Aimee (Nicholas) Steinbrink, Alexander (Lindsey) Brandel, Mikayla Faivre, Megan Faivre and Mason Faivre; great-grandchildren, Eva (Fiancée Aiden) Nielsen, Elsa Nielsen, Jack Nielsen, Hayden (Josie) Steinbrink, Jordan Steinbrink, Logan Steinbrink, Leigham Becerra, Benson Brandel and a great-great granddaughter on the way. She is further survived by her sisters, Naomi (Bob) Garrett, Mavis Raymond, and Jane Little; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Chuck, of 63 years in 2023.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026 at Walnut Hill Bible Church with Pastor Dan Gunderson officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Walnut Hill Cemetery.