Ruth Ann Knaust

Ruth Ann Knaust, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and nurse, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2024, surrounded by her family in Silverton, Oregon. Born in Bay City, Michigan, Ruth was the daughter of Shirley Marie Smith and James "Jim" Nadeau.

In 1981, Ruth married Gary Knaust in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures like building their own house. Ruth and Gary were blessed with two children, Tamara and Matthew, who were the center of her world. She cherished her role as a mother and embraced every moment with them.

Ruth's heart overflowed with love for her grandchildren: Claire, Elaina, Ryan, and Paige. She delighted in their laughter, celebrated their achievements, and created lasting memories with them.

A dedicated nurse, Ruth attended Grossmont College in San Diego, California, where she honed her skills and passion for caring for others. She began a lengthy career with Kaiser Permanente. In 2007, she moved to Oregon, joining the Kaiser Sunnyside family at their Mt. Hood offices. Ruth left an impact on countless patients and colleagues until her retirement.

Ruth's green thumb was evident in her beautiful garden, where tulips bloomed and other flowers bloomed alongside each other. She found solace tending to her flowers, nurturing them with the same care she gave to her patients. Ruth’s favorite holiday was Christmas. Her kitchen became a festive workshop as she baked cookies, crafted candies, and whipped up batches of peanut brittle and caramel corn. These homemade treats were treasured gifts for family and friends. Ruth also loved traveling, she embarked on several quilting cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean, Ruth embraced adventure with open arms.

Ruth is survived by her husband, Gary Knaust; children, Tamara (Dennis) Kastner and Matthew (Karli) Knaust; grandchildren, Claire Kastner, Elaina Knaust, Ryan Knaust and Paige Kastner; sisters, Beverly Molyneux, Andrea James, Kathleen Zollner; in addition to many nieces and nephews.

A breast cancer survivor, Ruth faced adversity with unwavering strength and determination. Her resilience inspired everyone who knew her. Memorial contributions in Ruth's honor can be made to the American Cancer Society, supporting research and advocacy to fight this disease that touched her life.

A graveside service for family will be held on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at 2pm at Valley View Cemetery in Silverton, Oregon. May her memory bring comfort to those who loved her, and may her quilts continue to wrap others in warmth and love.