Ruth Marie Martin, 85, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Ruth was born on October 3, 1940, in Berwyn, Illinois, to Chester and Margaret Ellison. She and her older sister, Dolores, were raised in Berwyn, where Ruth developed a lifelong love of learning and service. She graduated from Walther High School in Melrose Park, Illinois, and earned her degree in education from Concordia College River Forest.

Ruth began her teaching career in Michigan before moving to Arlington Heights, Illinois, where she taught at the elementary school connected to St. Peter's Lutheran Church. It was there she met Leonard Martin, a pastor on staff. They were united in marriage on August 1, 1964. Together, they were blessed with five sons: Matthew, Christian, Peter, Joel, and Aaron.

Ruth devoted herself to raising her family as they moved from Arlington Heights to Chicago and finally to Aurora, Colorado. After settling in Colorado, she returned to her passion for teaching, serving students at Hope Elementary in Aurora, Grace Elementary in Denver, and Park Lane Elementary in Aurora. Her dedication to education touched countless young lives throughout her career.

As a pastor's wife, Ruth was an active and cherished member of numerous congregations, including Nazareth in Chicago, Lord of the Valley in Granby, Colorado, and Hope, Mount Olive, and All Saints in Aurora, Colorado. She will be remembered for her generosity of spirit and her gift for hospitality, welcoming people into her home for holiday celebrations, meals, book clubs, card games, and meaningful conversation.

In retirement, Ruth found joy in volunteering for the Friends of the Aurora Library Book Outlet, teaching English as a second language through her church, and participating in the Alpha Delta Kappa teacher sorority. Above all, she treasured time spent with friends and her beloved grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Chester and Margaret Ellison; her husband, Leonard Martin; and her sister, Dolores.

She is survived by her five sons: Matthew (Kristy) Martin, Christian Martin, Peter (Margaret) Martin, Joel (Linda) Martin, and Aaron Martin; eight grandchildren: Jonah (Olivia), Sam, Louise, Noah, Everett, Hannah, Elsa, and Ben; three great-grandchildren; and a legacy of love shared with family members, friends, and colleagues across many communities.

A memorial service celebrating Ruth's life will be held in the Chicago area later this fall. Details will be announced at a later date.