Ruth L. Henschen, 80, of 8282 Botkins Road, New Knoxville, Ohio, died 9:00 P.M. Monday, June 14, 2010, at the Gardens of Wapakoneta.

She was born April 5, 1930, in New Knoxville, the daughter of Edward and Lela (Schmidt) Schroer.

She married Lester Henschen on May 20, 1950 and he preceded her in death on February 24, 2007.

She is survived by her two sons: Mark (Sherry) Henschen of New Knoxville; Kevin Henschen of New Knoxville; five grandchildren: Sarah (Michael) O’Driscoll; James (Stephanie) Henschen; John (Courtney)Henschen; Marcus Henschen; Doug Henschen; by one great-grandson, Isaac Henschen; by one sister, Lillian (Norman) Wierwille of New Knoxville; a daughter-in-law, Luan Henschen -Louis.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and by one son, Jeff Henschen.

Ruth was a 1948 graduate of New Knoxville High School. She earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Wright State University. She taught fourth, fifth and sixth grades at New Knoxville School for 26 years, retiring in 1995. Ruth was involved in numerous education organizations, with an interest in reading and gifted students. She attented many math conferences. She was a member of the Beta Upsilon Chapter of Delta Kamma Gamma Society for many years. She was selected as a Jennings Scholar in 1988 and was included in Who’s Who of American Teachers. She also assisted in the operation of the family dairy farm.

She was a lifelong member of the First United Church of Christ in New Knoxville, where she was active in the Women’s Guild and held various offices in the Guild; had taught Sunday School for many years in the Kindergarten and Junior Departments and was a substitute in the Adult Dept; she was also a member of the Prayer Chain of the church and the youth prayer group.

Funeral rites will be held 11:00 A.M. Friday, June 18, 2010, at the First United Church of Christ in New Knoxville, the Reverend David Williams, officiant. Burial will follow at Pilger Ruhe Cemetery.

Friends may call from 4-8 P.M. Thursday in the Heritage Room of the First United Church of Christ in New Knoxville, where memorial donations may be directed to the Radio Broadcast Fund of the church.