The Life of RUTH IRENE HOFFMAN

Ruth Irene Hoffman passed away on June 3, 2018 at the age of 99. She was born to James Henry Saddoris and Anna Bell Turk in Sway City, Iowa. She lived in Des Moines for most of her life. Ruth graduated from North High School. Later she met and married Jay Breeding and had two children, Sunny and Carman. Then she married Harlan Hoffman and had three children, Donna, Larry, and Lois.

Ruth entered the workforce as a young mother, first working part time at Baker’s Shoe Store and then Hullings Music. She then moved into full time work at State Auto Insurance until retirement. She worked hard and took many classes to become an adjuster, and was honored to become the first female adjuster in Des Moines.

Ruth enjoyed life after retirement. She loved to travel and visited Oregon, Mexico, Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, Hawaii, Missouri, Florida, and California. Ruth also enjoyed crocheting, needlework, crafting, and ceramics. She had an extensive collection of Fenton Art Glass and carousel horses. Ruth volunteered with Iowa Commodities for over 30 years. She loved being outside soaking up the sunshine. She had a love for flowers and gardening. Finally, even at 99 Ruth had a thirst for knowledge and decided to take a DNA test to find out the mysteries of her ancestors. 

Ruth lived in Cummins Village for over 34 years, being one of the first residents to live in the apartments. She was the president of the social committee and served in other positions on the board as well. She enjoyed the many activities in the apartments, including holiday parties and potlucks. In the last few months of her life health problems kept Ruth from staying at home so she moved to Parkridge Care where she was able to room with Emma, who quickly became her best friend. 

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her three siblings, and two sons; Larry and Carman. She is survived by her children; Sunny Breeding, Lois Lingle, and Donna Short; niece, Charlotte Brookes; 9 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren, and 6 nephews. She is also survived by her closest friends Debi Nielson and Donna Edwards and many other friends as well. Finally, she is survived by a special friend, Joan Bresley, who allowed Ruth to live in her home for as long as possible by caring for Ruth like her own mother.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2018 at 10 am at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home. There will be a visitation an hour prior and a burial to follow at Highland Memory Gardens.

Memorial contributions can be given to the family in honor of Ruth.