Honoring the Memory
of Those
We Love

On Wednesday, December 1, 2021, of Sunrise Senior Living, Upper Saint Clair, formerly of Baldwin Borough. Devoted wife of the late Michael J. Then; mother of Paul M. (MaryBeth) Then of Victor, NY, Kathryn Then of Baldwin, Michele (Steve) Evanovich of Whitehall, Janet (Jeff) Walker of Bethel Park and the late Mary Jane (survived by Dave) Chismar; grandmother of 14; great-grandmother of seven; daughter of the late Jacob "Al" and Catharine Rectenwald; sister of Mary Jane (the late John) Lazenga, Shirley Ann (the late Wallace) Warner and the late Norma Dorothy (Albert) Piel, Teresa Amelia (survived by Francis) Nowalk, and James Alan (survived by Mary) Rectenwald. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Ruth married Michael on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 1958. She stayed firmly by his side until his death 59 years later. Ruth enjoyed getting together with her extended family, celebrating the reception of sacraments, the holidays, or any other reason to get together. She was the designated baker. Her cakes, especially for weddings, were artistic expressions of love. Ruth attended Saint Basil’s Elementary and High School. After graduation she worked for Bell Telephone becoming a supervisor and trainer. In 1960, Ruth and Michael moved to Baldwin and became founding members of Saint Albert the Great Parish. She remained a parishioner for 61 years. Having sung semi-professionally, Ruth was an active cantor and choir member for more than 40 years. She loved to sing and play her electric organ. In 2004, Ruth suffered a stroke from a medical procedure. She endured the devastating consequences with great courage, fortitude, and love. Workers at Sunrise Senior Living where she spent the last six years of her life, commented on her kindness. “She’s a sweety. We just love her.” Even in the last days of her life, she maintained a smile, facing death with the same courage and faith with which she faced life. Friends will be received at the John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227 on Sunday, December 5, 2021 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Funeral prayer on Monday morning at 11:15. Mass of Christian Burial in Blessed Trinity Parish, St. Albert the Great Church at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, family suggests contributions to Blessed Trinity Parish, 3198 Schieck Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15227.