Ruth Kremer

Ruth Fenn Kremer 82, of Corona, CA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Sunday, Mother's Day, May 9, 2021. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert N. Kremer, who recently passed on January 8, 2021. Loving and adored mother of Linda Kremer, Stephen Kremer, Karen (Dennis) Mahoney. Admired and cherished grandmother of Matthew, Allison, and Julia Mahoney. Ruth was also predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Caryl and Harry Hagel of Cromwell CT and leaves behind numerous loving nieces and nephews. Ruth was born in 1939 in Waterbury, CT to Clarence Fenn and Evelyn Walker Fenn, as the youngest of two daughters. She grew up in a loving home that included, at various times, both maternal and paternal grandparents. For the most part, Ruth was a model student and rule follower, but she occasionally shared a mischievous tale from her childhood, such as nearly being run over as she rode a sled down her steep driveway and into oncoming traffic. Ruth went on to the University of Connecticut, graduating in 1961. Although very few would describe her as a wanderer or adventurer, the draw of available teaching positions and eternal sunshine in Southern California shifted the course of her life. She drove out with a childhood friend and moved into her first residence on Grand Boulevard in Corona. A few years later, Ruth enticed her college roommate, Judy Horan, to follow her out to California, cementing their lifelong friendship. During these early years in Corona, Ruth developed a dear circle of friends, many of whom were also "California transplants." Among this group was Bob Kremer, another educator who was drawn to the promises of Southern California. Ruth first met Bob at a "mixer" for new teachers, but they did not begin dating for several years. In fact, for a while, Bob would call her apartment and would take out either Ruth or Judy, depending on who answered the phone. As time progressed, and Ruth answered the phone more often, their relationship blossomed. Ruth recently admitted that after a few years of friendship, both she and Bob realized that their soulmate was "right under their nose." They were married in Ruth's hometown in Connecticut in 1966 and then celebrated soon after with Bob's family in Iowa, where Ruth was immediately embraced by his parents, 11 siblings, and countless nieces and nephews. Bob and Ruth soon began their own family. During her years at home as a young mother, Ruth relished the time with her children and the opportunity to try her hand at various "home-making talents". She discovered her talent as a master bread baker, packing the freezer with loaves of home made bread, ready for school lunches or to be given away as gifts. She was less successful, however, in her attempts to channel her own mother's sewing talents. In fact, when Karen was only four years old, Ruth painstakingly attempted to make matching "mother/daughter" kaftan dresses out of a nice navy blue and white check fabric. Karen didn't like the color of the dress, so Ruth had to settle for "matching kaftans" with the little girl across the street who inherited the dress. Thankfully, Linda took on the mantle of master-crafter in the Kremer household, so Ruth could focus on her true gifts, providing unconditional support for Linda, Steve, and Karen, as she lived out her philosophy to "love one another." Ruth worked for 26 years for the Corona-Norco Unified School District as a teacher in various roles and levels. When she first began teaching in the Corona-Norco schools, she was hired at Jefferson Elementary and taught first grade. When she returned to teaching after taking time to raise her young family, she taught 2nd and 3rd grade. After earning a Master's Degree in Special Education from the University of La Verne, she continued teaching as a resource specialist at the elementary, junior high, and ultimately, the high school level. Her final teaching position was at Horizon Continuation School, an alternative high school for students. It was there that Ruth realized her true vocation as she found ways to connect with these students, by recognizing and respecting their humanity in order to support them in learning and in life. After retiring from teaching, she worked for Weight Watchers, continuing in her role of coach and mentor. Bob and Ruth's faith-filled partnership became a model for all those around them. They became very active in Marriage Encounter and were instrumental in guiding and mentoring young couples as they prepared for the sacrament of marriage at their church, St. Matthew Church of Corona. For years, couples would sit on the couch in their home as they shared their experiences and wisdom of marriage. This was no less powerful for their own children, who eavesdropped from the other room, hearing stories that highlighted the importance of commitment, vulnerability, and communication to strengthen and support a relationship. She also served on the board for the Epilepsy Foundation, served on the Corona Interfaith Council, was a member of the American Association of University Women, and helped mentor and empower at-risk girls at Orange Grove High School. Ruth's nurturing spirit extended far beyond her family. She always went the extra mile for those in need, providing both material and emotional support for those around her. Ruth had a quiet wisdom that she generously shared with friends, neighbors, and colleagues. She had a gift for listening, without judgment, and validated the feelings of those around her. Descriptions and accolades cannot adequately convey the joy, grace, and love that she bestowed on those who were blessed to know her. As said by Maya Angelou, “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” We will all remember how Ruth made us feel: special, seen, respected, appreciated, and utterly loved. It is hard to express how much she will be missed. A special thank you to Inspirations Home Care for their loving care and support of Ruth during her final weeks. A joint Memorial Mass will be held for both Bob and Ruth at St. Matthew Church, 2140 W. Ontario Avenue, Corona, CA 92882 on June 25th, 2021 at 10:00 am. Please join us for a light reception at the parish center immediately following the Mass. Memorial donations may be made directly to the Parkinson's Foundation or through Thomas Miller Mortuary (please designate "in honor of Bob and Ruth Kremer"). Service St. Mathews Catholic Church 951-737-1621 | Friday 6/25, 10:00 am Service is for Bob and Ruth Kremer