Ruth D Nachtwey

Ruth D Nachtwey passed away in peace on April 30th. Born January 2, 1925, she lived to a full 101 years.

A service & reception honoring her life will be held on July 18th at 1 pm. Immanuel Lutheran Church located at 7810 SE 15th in Portland, OR 97202. Gifts can be given in her honor to Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Ruth Boening was born in St. Ansgar, Iowa as the youngest of five children. The family later moved to Starbuck, Minnesota where she formed friendships that followed her throughout life. Ruth attended St. Olaf College before acceptance into the Cadet Nurse Corps at age 18. It was WWII. She trained and worked through Swedish Hospital in Minneapolis and the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. Following the war, she continued her nursing career in the Midwest. 

Ruth moved out West to Seattle at the invite of a former classmate. There she met Lloyd Nachtwey on a blind double date and in 1952 they were married. In the years that followed, they were blessed with three children. Lloyd and his brother Ed established a business based in Portland which led to leaving Seattle in 1963. Their home in Eastmoreland has remained the center of family activity for decades. They enjoyed a marriage that lasted for 58 years until Lloyd’s passing in 2010.

Good Samaritan Hospital became her homebase for over 20 years. Once described as “the most amiable nurse” she led through hard work, building friendships and a positive rapport with patients. Working full time as the children grew, she was a rock both at home and in her chosen profession.

Born to first generation German parents, her lifetime commitment to the Lutheran tradition was at her core. Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sellwood became a central focus of her energy. Serving on countless committees often taking leadership roles, as treasurer, along with welcoming visitors and new members was her mission. She demonstrated her deep belief in giving to others through stewardship. The love and support the congregation gave back to her in her final years will never be forgotten.

Finally, the joy of gardening, landscaping, flower arranging and fulfillment of being outside (rain or shine) was her lifelong passion. Ruth left no weed unturned. Her garden serves as a shining example of the seeds she planted throughout life.

She is survived by her children Gretchen Rodgers, Jon Nachtwey, Timothy Nachtwey and grandson Nicholas Rodgers. Ruth is also survived by her many nieces and nephews.