Ekelin, Ruth R.Ruth Rita (Graff) Ekelin, 90, Wisconsin Rapids, died on Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at Our House Senior Living. Ruth was born on Feb. 3, 1927 to John and Myrtle (Delong) Graff. Ruth was very proud that while attending 8th grade at St. Stephen's Parochial School, she was featured in a newspaper article for scoring 53 points during a basketball game. Ruth married Louis E. Ekelin on Sept. 4, 1948 at St. Stephen Catholic Church, Stevens Point, WI. After marriage Ruth and Louie moved to Wisconsin Rapids. Ruth began her working career after high school at Hardware Mutual, Stevens Point, WI until her marriage. Once her children were older, she worked for JC Penney, then the State of Wisconsin/Job Service in Wisconsin Rapids. She loved her gardens and was a member of Master Gardeners. She also excelled at all crafts and always said she was 5 years ahead of the latest craft trend. Her family received many of the beautiful projects she created. Ruth also belonged to several bowling and golf leagues. Later in life Ruth and Louie enjoyed traveling and took trips to Florida, Hawaii, Mexico, and Europe. Ruth is survived by her three children, Diana (Bruce) Joos of Phillips, WI, Aaron (Rhonda) Kaenan of Neosho, WI, and Thomas (Josanne) Ekelin and her sister Lois Sankey of Appleton, WI. She is further survived by four grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, husband Louis, sister Dorothy Danielski, brothers, Verne Graff and John Graff Jr... Ruth was loved by her family and will be greatly missed. Per Ruth's wishes, there will be a private family service only. Ritchay Funeral Home is assisting the family. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at The Renaissance, Our House Senior Living and Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice for their care of Ruth.