Ruth Ann Cole

Ruth Ann (Haavisto) Cole 55, Marathon, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 21st, 2011 at her home. She was born January 24, 1956 in Marshfield, daughter of Martin Haavisto of Rhinelander and the late Joyce (Vorpagel) Haavisto. Ruth fought and lived with Adrenal Cancer for several years. Throughout her fight she always saw the positive side of life and lived every day to its fullest with courage and strength. Her spirit and smile were bright and her presence was always a comfort to those around her. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, and an inspiration to all who knew her. Ruth married Kenneth Cole on July 8th, 1978 in Colby, WI. They continued their life and residence in Marathon City, WI. Survivors include, her husband, Kenneth Cole, Marathon; three children, Gregory (Lindsay) Cole and their son, Gavin, Mosinee, Sheree (Timothy) Knauf, Hanover Park, IL and Melanie Cole, Wausau; her father, Martin Haavisto, Rhinelander; her sister, Caryn (Alan) Ruetten, Rhinelander; and five brothers and sisters-in-law, Rhonda Gearhart, Sharon (Michael) Spueler, Glen (Kerrie) Cole, Jack (Cindy) Cole and Barb (Loren) Cliver. Ruth had lots of love for football, baseball, giraffes, snowmen, spending time with her friends and her grandson Gavin, camping, going up north to her father's cabin, and most of all family. Ruth worked as a typing teacher at Marathon High School for several years, and then stayed home to raise her three children while Kenneth worked at Menzer Lumber. After the children started school, Ruth started work at American Family Insurance in Rib Mountain, WI. Visitation will be held on Friday, December 23, 2011 from 3:00 until 6:00 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Marathon. Memorials may be given in Ruth's memory to Kenneth Cole, to donate to a cancer organization of his choice. Online condolences at www.petersonkraemer.com