Ruth Williams ’42 Vrieling

Ruth Williams ’42 Vrieling, passed away on January 30, 2018. She was born on March 18, 1921 in Holland, Michigan to Bertha (Hesse) Williams and Benjamin Harrison Williams. Ruth married her high school sweetheart Russell Vrieling on September 14, 1943, shortly before he went overseas to fight in World War II. Upon Russell’s return from the war they settled in Holland, Michigan, started their family and raised four children.
Ruth graduated from Holland High School in 1938, Hope College in 1942, and in 1972 obtained her master’s degree in education from Michigan Sate University. She was a dedicated and highly regarded teacher at Holland High School and E.E. Fell Junior High School, retiring in 1982. Following retirement Ruth and Russell spent summers in Michigan and winters in Yuma, Arizona, enjoying the climate both places offered. In her later years, Ruth relocated to Oklahoma to be close to family.
Ruth was an avid bridge player and spent many hours of her retirement playing competitive duplicate bridge, proudly earning silver life master status. Her other primary interests included family, gardening, reading, and travel. Her faith was very important to her and she was a dedicated member of Hope Church, Holland, Michigan and Edmond Trinity Christian Church, Edmond, Oklahoma.
She is survived by children Robert Vrieling and wife Coral of Yorba Linda, California; son John Vrieling and wife Robin of Cedar Springs, Michigan; daughter Vicki Coury and husband Thomas of Oklahoma City; and son Jim Vrieling and wife Kate of Arvada, Colorado. Ruth loved her grandchildren Anna Vrieling, Paul Vrieling, Chris Vrieling; and great grandchildren Kristin, Peyton, Finley, and Emmy Vrieling.
She was predeceased by her husband, Russell, brother Donald Williams, and sister Mary Lou Otto.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital and the compassionate caregivers at Crossroads Hospice, who made her journey easier for all. A memorial service is scheduled for 4:00 pm, Thursday February 8, at Edmond Trinity Christian Church, 1400 NW 178th St., Edmond, OK, 73012. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to the charity of your choosing.