Kathryn Ruhl Wolgemuth

Kathryn (Kate, Kathy) Ruhl Wolgemuth, age 87, died peacefully at her home at Brethren Village on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Kate was known for her compassion and kindness to everyone she met. She will be missed by her family and many friends, near and far with whom she made meaningful connections.

Two of her beloved caregivers, Melissa and Jasmine, along with her best friend and next-door-neighbor Marty, were with her when she entered heaven and met Jesus face to face, the Jesus whom she faithfully loved and served her whole life.

Born on June 25, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Jacob H. and Naomi G. (Kulp) Ruhl who proceeded her in death. She lived her entire life in Manheim, a town she dearly loved, until her move to Brethren Village in 2015. She and her late husband Donald H Wolgemuth who died in 2019 were happily married for 68 years. A son, Andrew D, a daughter, Tracey L, and a brother, Donald E. Ruhl also proceeded her in death. Kate is survived by her daughter-in-law, Rachel Wolgemuth of East Arlington, Vermont, a sister-in-law, Janice Ruhl of Lititz, her husband’s brother and wife, Jay and Anita Wolgemuth, Lancaster, and an extended family of nieces and nephews.

Kate was a homemaker who found her passion in serving others in a variety of ministries. She was a past member of East Fairview Church of the Brethren and a longtime member of Calvary Church, Lancaster.

She was an avid correspondent and enjoyed picking out the perfect card to send to people. It brought her much joy to count all the mail she received for birthdays and other special occasions as a result of this ministry. Her compassionate kindness extended to her Laotian “sons” and their families as she helped them acclimate to life in the United States. Her friendship and correspondence with her pen pal and German “sister” Rita, which began 74 years ago, continued until her death.

Kate’s love for Jesus was at the heart of everything she did and her passionate prayers for her friends and family will be greatly missed, but they take great comfort in knowing she is now resting in the arms of Jesus.

At Kathryn’s request, funeral services are private. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may send contributions in Kate’s memory to American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116.