Ruth Evangeline Hooten, 99
Ruth Evangeline Hooten, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, passed away on April 9, 2021 at the age of 99. She was born in Seattle on Oct. 20, 1921. She was the fourth daughter of Dutch immigrants John Zonruiter and Engeltje (Anna) Zantger, who immigrated through Ellis Island.
Ruth married George “Bill” Hooten on Aug. 9, 1940, in Seattle. They were married 54 years. In their early marriage Bill worked for Boeing. After WWII, Boeing had a reduction in its work force and the family made the decision to move to Grants Pass, Ore., and start a dairy farm. They spent several years working hard, but when the dairy herds in the area became diseased, they sold and moved back to Seattle, where they raised their two daughters and a son. They were the typical, hard-working family of the day, where Bill provided the financial means for the family and Ruth was the homemaker.
In spite of ill health all her life, Ruth was an independent and determined lady. They moved to Shelton, Wash., after Bill retired and it was there that Ruth enjoyed several years of gardening, hunting, their dogs and fishing, including trips to Kalaloch Beach to fish for smelt. After Bill passed, Ruth moved to Idaho to be closer to her daughters. Ruth, at 94, sold her condo in Hayden and moved into assisted living facilities.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bill; son, Bill Nick Hooten; and all her siblings. She is survived by daughters Jackie Jewett (Robert) and Georgean (Cookie) Coleman (Ronald); five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution in the memory of Ruth to Garden at Orchard Ridge 6245 W. Harrison Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 would be appreciated. Also want to acknowledge a special thank you to Jason for his compassionate care for Mom while at Orchard Ridge. A private family gathering will take place at a later date.
Yates Funeral Homes has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Ruth’s online memorial and sign her guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.
