Ruth Magill Hyatt-Stevens Obituary (1919 - 2008)

A high-spirited lady in perpetual motion, finally came to rest on November 14, 2008. Born Ruth Magill Blake on October 8, 1919 in Boone, Iowa to James and Edna Blake, Ruth and her brother and three sisters moved often, from Iowa to Chicago to New Jersey to Michigan. Spending her high school days living on a Michigan farm, Ruth never missed a Saturday night dance.? It was at the White Rabbit Dance Hall where she met Lawrence "Shorty" Hyatt.? After Ruth graduated from Olivet High School in 1937, the family moved back to New Jersey.? Shorty spent many weekends on the Pennsylvania Turnpike visiting Ruth.? Shorty and Ruth were married in 1939 and settled in Eaton Rapids, where Ruth was always actively involved in something. She was a member of numerous clubs and organizations.? A few of these activities included the Eastern Star, Eaton Rapids Hospital Auxiliary, treasurer of the Bonnie View Women's Golf League for over 20 years, and First Congregational Church.? She was an active bowler, square dancer, Girl Scout leader, home room mother, and a regular fan of Eaton Rapids High School and MSU sports.? She also enjoyed exchanging the latest news at the "sewing club", where Shorty always claimed "Not much sewing goes on." Ruth also enjoyed shopping, even on her lunch breaks during her 22 years working for the State of Michigan Liquor Commission and the Department of Agriculture.? She was such a frequent visitor at Knapp's, one sales clerk mistakenly gave her the employee's discount. Ruth and Shorty were married for 49 years when Shorty died in 1988.? Ruth was married again briefly to Bernard "Bud" Stevens, who died in 2001. Ruth is survived by three children: Norman (Pat) Hyatt and Janet (Jamie) Davidson of Eaton Rapids, and Richard (Jenny) Hyatt of Punta Gorda, Florida.? Four grandchildren and seven great grandchildren are left to remember her.? She also leaves sisters Helen McGivern of Eaton Rapids, Edna Mae Hannon of Lansing, and Jane Gewain of North Carolina.? A brother, Vern Blake, died in 1965.Family will receive friends Sunday, November 16, 2008 at Skinner Funeral Home from 2-5pm.? Funeral services will be held Monday at 11:00 am.? Gifts of remembrance of Ruth would be gratefully accepted by the First Congregational Church of Eaton Rapids, the Eaton Rapids Hospital Auxiliary, and Eaton Community Hospice.?