Ruth E. (Hixon) Veenhuizen

Ruth E. (Hixon) Veenhuizen of Maple Valley passed away February 21, 2012, at the age of 98. Ruth was born February 13, 1914. She grew up in West Seattle and graduated from Garfield High School and Seattle Pacific College. She married William (Bill) Veenhuizen in 1936. Together they worked their farm on Maple Valley Road, taking their produce to the famed “Public Market”, and were known for their corn and pumpkins. Ruth went back to teaching in the Tahoma School district where she was voted teacher of the year in 1974.Ruth loved to read and garden, known especially for her dahlias. She was a Mariner’s fan, enjoyed discussing politics and the democratic party. She was very proud of her Irish roots and dedicated to her faith in Christ. Ruth and Bill attended May Valley Alliance Church for years. She was also a member of the Sigma Rho Sorority.Ruth was predeceased by her parents George and Mary Hixon; sisters, Barbara DeVinck and Geraldine Taylor; brothers, James Hixon and George Hixon; and nephew, Jefforey Larsen. She is survived by sisters, Carol Olivotti and Jacquelyn Larsen; nephews, Brian Cook, Michael Olivotti and Timothy Larsen; niece, Cynthia Hickman; “chosen” family Cheryl and Mark White and their daughter Madison. A special thank you to Ardie Butler and Rick and Pat Lennon for their weekly visits, and to the Merrill Gardens staff and the “Home Instead” staff for their devoted care.A memorial service will be held at the May Valley Alliance Church, 16431 SE Renton-Issaquah Road, Renton WA, 98059, on Friday, March 9 at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the May Valley Alliance Church in Renton or to the Sigma Rho Sorority.