Mitzi Maureen (Martin) Ruwadi

Mitzi Maureen Ruwadi, 81, of Massillon, while surrounded by family and friends, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home, early Sunday morning, July 1, 2018.  Born in Zanesville, Ohio, January 31, 1937, a daughter to the late John R. and Vivian Y. (Patterson) Martin, Mitzi graduated from Massillon Washington High School.  Her energy and imagination drew her onto a variety of career paths that included several years with the Higbee Company as a counter representative for Estee Lauder Cosmetics.  Even more significant was the time she invested with the Canton appraisal office of J.G. Cleminshaw, Inc., where she met her husband, Ray Ruwadi, who happened to work in the same building.  A devoted wife and a loving mom and grandma, Mitzi placed her husband, her family and her fur babies at the center of her life.  That devotion was most evident when Mitzi became the living donor of a kidney to her daughter, Cathy.  She looked forward to every new adventure, meeting life’s challenges with courage, grace and good humor – and always looking her best.  A faithful member of St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, Mitzi remained as active in recent years as her health allowed.  She also held membership in the Grand Chapter and Legacy Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. 

Predeceased by her parents; brothers, Max Eugene and Mark Duane Martin; and in 2010, by her daughter, Cathleen Renee Houtz; Mitzi is survived by her husband, Raymond V. Ruwadi, of the residence; her daughters, Christine (Michael) Takerian, of Oro Valley, Arizona and Corinne DeWalt, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; her grandchildren, Kendall (Travis) Legris and Branden Takerian; and a great-grandchild expected in October.  Also surviving are her sister, Kae Y. (Ronald) Vilt, of Florida and her extended family, Douglas (Donna) Ruwadi, David Ruwadi (and Jean Foster) and Debra (Kevin) Nash, all of the area, together with a host of beloved friends and treasured care-givers whose time and skill have been very sincerely appreciated.

Funeral services will be conducted at 4:00 Thursday afternoon, July 5, 2018, at Atkinson Feucht Hare Funeral Home in Massillon.  Rev. George Baum will officiate and burial will take place in Massillon Cemetery.  The family will receive condolences one hour prior to the service Thursday afternoon, from 3-4:00 p.m.  They have also suggested memorial contributions made in care of the Humane Society of Stark County. 

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