Ruth Gertrude Hanzen, 92, of Bay City Texas entered into her eternal rest on March 2, 2015 at 92 blessed years of age. Ruth was born at a private residence in Bay City Michigan on September 1, 1922 to Elmer and Phoebe Steinbauer. Ruth had twin brothers- Bruce and Alan, whom she lovingly referred to as double trouble. She graduated high school and immediately attended nursing school in Lansing. She was an RN upon completion of a 3 year nursing program. When her brother Bruce was killed in Normandy, Ruth volunteered to serve in the Army to take his place and to honor him in June of 1945. Ruth served in Manila in a POW hospital during WWII; she was stationed there for a little under a year. While commissioned, she served as a 1st Lt in the US Army. Ruth married Robert Alan Hanzen on February 2, 1951. Ruth and "Bob" had two children- Laurie Lynn and Bruce Alan. Ruth spent many years as a Girl Scout leader for Laurie and enjoyed the Girl Scout experience as much as or more than the girls she lead. Bob and Ruth retired to Sargent TX in the mid 80s and were very involved with their beloved "Creek" community. They traveled the world and made many wonderful memories over the years. Ruth was an active member of the Ladies Auxiliary, the VFW, and the Homemakers for many years. Ruth was also a member of Abundant Life Fellowship Church in Bay City, where she so enjoyed watching the children- even helping with VBS several years.

Ruth is preceded in death by her parents- Elmer and Phoebe, by her two brothers- Bruce and Alan, her devoted husband Bob, and her beloved daughter Laurie. Ruth is survived by her son Bruce "Grumpy" Hanzen, her son in law Bill Lubbers, her grandson Nathan Lubbers and his wife Ashley of Bay City. She is also survived by her granddaughter Melanie Owens and her husband Eric of Cedar Park, TX. She leaves behind her dear sweet great granddaughters Bryce, Tristyn, and Jordyn Owens who will miss their Nanny very much.

The family will receive visitors from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Wednesday, March 4, 2015 at the funeral home. The funeral service will be held 2:00 PM Thursday, March 5, 2015 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Pastor Greg McMullin officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be: George Deshotels, Bobby Garcia, Thomas Gray, Kery Hallum, Marty Johnson, and Ray Taggart Jr.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity close to your heart in her honor.