Ruth Stalsonburg, of Newaygo, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. 

Some people pass through life quietly, but Ruth Stalsonburg lived hers with an infectious, unforgettable spark. At 93 years young, she was a true force—a sharp, spirited matriarch who worked hard, loved fiercely, and lived life entirely on her own terms. To know her was to have an immediate ally, a constant source of laughter, and an open welcome at her table. If you never had the privilege of meeting Ruth, you missed out on one of the truly legendary ones. 

A proud retiree of General Motors, Ruth built a lifetime on independence, grit, and an unwavering work ethic. She brought that same lively, no-nonsense energy to everything she touched. She was the undisputed heart of her family, famous for bringing generations together for traditional summer gatherings along the water. Her home was an open harbor where the door was never locked, and no one ever left hungry—especially when she served her famous, classic yellow mustard potato salad, a legendary family recipe that her late son, Michael, cherished above all else. 

Ruth’s heart belonged to the outdoors and the traditions she faithfully built year after year. She never missed a single summer camping along the channel at Muskegon State Park, where she loved sitting at the campsite watching the big ships go by. When winter arrived, she traded Michigan cold for Florida warmth—a yearly ritual she proudly kept alive alongside her daughter, Nancy, even after the loss of her beloved husband, Harry. 

Whether she was setting sail on country music cruises or cheering on her Detroit Tigers with sharp wit and loyalty, Ruth embraced life with absolute enthusiasm. 

Reunited now in heavenly rest with her beloved husband of 62 years, Harry Stalsonburg, Ruth leaves behind a rich legacy defined by joy, resilience, and an unbreakable family bond. 

Her memory will be forever cherished by all who loved her. 

“A life lived with passion, remembered with laughter, and loved beyond measure.”

In addition to her husband she was preceded by her son, Michael Stalsonburg; son-in-law, Larry Comis; grandson, Eric Stalsonburg; and nine siblings. She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Nancy Comis; daughter-in-law, Donnis Stalsonburg; grandchildren, Michelle Gleason and Skip Poel, Meridith Stalsonburg, Melanie Augustyn and Jay DeJonge, Melinda Vereeke, Garry Comis, Angie and Dan Rottier, Laura Comis; great-grandchildren, Carter Gleason, Madelyn and Gage Brouwer, Violet Augustyn, Evan Vereeke, Treyton Vereeke; Nathan Comis, Samantha Comis, Weston Rottier, Reece Rottier; sister-in-law, Jenell Stalsonburg; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW, with Pastor Dennis Gilbert officiating. The burial will take place at Grandville Cemetery. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society.