Obituary of Ruth Elaine Kroger

Ruth Elaine Kroger, 72, passed peacefully on June 9, 2018, after valiantly fighting a three-month battle with cancer. Elaine was born in Puyallup, WA, to Edward H. and Ruth L. (Mark) Kroger on July 28, 1945. Blinded from a medical procedure at birth, Elaine never let her impairment define her. She attended the School for the Blind in Vancouver, WA, but chose to attend Puyallup High School, graduating in 1963. She then entered Pacific Lutheran University, Parkland, WA, where she excelled in her studies, and sang in the renowned Choir of the West. Following graduation in 1967, Elaine worked for the Good Samaritan Mental Health service in Puyallup. Elaine’s mother died when she was five, her father in 1975, and her stepmother, Catherine, in 1996, after which Elaine lived independently. For many years she was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church, Puyallup, before converting to Catholicism. She joined All Saints Catholic Church, Puyallup, where she served as a member of the Columbiettes (the women’s auxiliary to the Knights of Columbus), routinely facilitated Bible study classes, and sponsored many people on their journey to becoming Catholic. Elaine had no close family members, but many friends, who will deeply miss her keen intellect, curiosity, ready wit, and the courage she displayed in living a productive life of faith. Services will be held at All Saints Catholic Church, Puyallup, on Saturday, June 16 at 11:00 a.m. Donations may be made to Catholic Community Services of Western Washington, 1323 Yakima Ave. Tacoma, WA, 98405, or online: www.ccsww.org.