Ruth Elizabeth Forsha (née Kessel) was born Friday, September 11, 1925 in Brazil, Indiana .
she died Friday, September 30, 2016. her recorded age was 90.
Ruth Elizabeth Kessel Forsha was born on a farm in Vigo County, Indiana on September 11, 1929. She was the youngest daughter of Harry and Mabel West Kessel both of whom predeceased her. She was a graduate of Fontanet High School, Indiana University, and achieved her Master Degree in counseling from Xavier University. While in college she met and married her husband of 65 years, H. Thomas Forsha, who survives her. Following their marriage, they resided in Connecticut, New York City, New Jersey, Cincinnati and Columbus Ohio. Ruth worked as an assistant to the comptroller of TEK Bearing Company in Bridgeport, Connecticut and was a substitute teacher for the Worthington Public Schools. Her main career was that of an Adoption Specialist with the United Methodist Children's Home in Worthington, Ohio for 31 years. Ruth assisted over 500 families in adopting children, many of whom came from international resources. In 1975, she traveled to Korea and accompanied nine young children to their adoptive homes in the United States. Ruth was a member of the Worthington Presbyterian church serving as an elder and a deacon. She was active in the Women's Association and served on the on the Endowment Memorial Fund, Geneva Fellowship (God Club), and was a Stephen's Minister. She was an avid bridge players and was at the Columbus Bridge Center as often as possible. She obtained her Life Master rating in 1981. She was a member of PEO, CT Chapter. Ruth was predeceased by her sisters; Rose Julian, Mary Ellen Wolverton, and Helen Loughmiller. She is survived by her children; Stephen (Linda) of Green Bay, WI, Linda (Mike Waddle) of Cincinnati, and Laura (James Malay) of Hampstead NC. She is also survived by five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Ruth wrote in July, 2008, "It is a sunny day here in Ohio, and I want to tell the world-What a great life I have had! Filled with love, laughter, and a few tears but surrounded by a wonderful family and lots of good friends." That was the focus of Ruth's life- her family, friends, faith, and bridge. A memorial service will be held at Worthington Presbyterian Church, 773 High St, Worthington, Monday, May 8, 2017 at 2pm, a gathering of friends, food and fellowship to follow. Services are entrusted to SCHOEDINGER WORTHINGTON CHAPEL.