Ruth Ann Matis-Cole

Ruth "Gertrude" Matis-Cole, 60, died peacefully at her home on Monday, December 3, 2012, under the care of Ministry Home Care Hospice, family and friends. She was born February 26, 1952 in Wausau, daughter of the late Joseph Sr. and Virginia (Frymark) Matis. Ruthie was a breast cancer survivor, only to succumb to lung cancer two short years later. Through the treatments of breast cancer and lung cancer, she remained strong mentally and witty as ever, making family and friends laugh until the end. Shortly before her death, Ruthie had been asked what her favorite life memory was and she responded, "The day I met Jay." Jay and Ruthie had been engaged for 24 years, and her final wish was to marry the love of her life, so on November 30, 2012, just three days prior to her death, she and Jay wed in a private ceremony. Jay and Ruthie resided in Mosinee. Ruthie was the youngest of four children, including two brothers, Joseph Jr. (Sandee) Matis, Mosinee and Emil (Kathy) Matis, Springfield, Ore.; and one sister, Delores Rice, Wausau. She is further survived by one daughter, three grandsons, one great grandchild, two nephews and seven nieces. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents and a nephew, Drew Matis. She was employed at Kraft Foods in Wausau for 35 years prior to her illness. Family and friends are invited to gather for graveside services at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 7, 2012 at Restlawn Memorial Park in Wausau. The family has asked, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society. A special thank you to the friends and neighbors of Ruthie who were there at a time when her family needed help. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts and we will never forget your selfless acts of kindness. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Avenue, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com